I'm not sure which ones I see at my feeder but will take a closer look next time I see some out there. If you scroll down on the link below where it describes purple and house finches, it has some hints to tell them apart. Here is a link that might be useful: MO Conservationist

I find it fascinating that some of the most interesting bird specimens occur in our own backyards. This is an interesting bird. Three things that need to be kept in mind for plausible bird IDing are these: does the bird normally occur in that area, does the bird occur in that area during THAT SEASON, and is this bird engaging in behavior typical for the suspected species. Using these guidelines, we can quickly rule out Rose-breasted Grosbeak (a summertime only visitor to WV) and Bay-breasted Warbler (a bird that only visits the US in the summer and its range does not even include WV. Also, they are not "feeder" birds). I had to take a close look at this to rule out a Common Redpoll. Once I saw the close up photo I could see the head is mostly red (redpolls have a red spot only) and the dark lines on the head and lack of chest streaking rule out the redpoll (among some other things as well). In the winter, when seeing red birds at US feeders, one has to rule out Crossbills. This bird is not a Crossbill. This brings us to the Purple Finch. This bird has interesting plumage but it still fits that of a purple finch. The bill is not as thick as a House Finch but otherwise House Finch sized bird- check. Dark ear patch, cap, and malar stripe- check. A light-colord belly and lack of streaking on the underside- check. Location, season, and behavior all fit. Your bird is a MALE PURPLE FINCH with an interesting white collar. Purple Finches can vary significantly from bird to bird.

well, the horns were definitely more like the head of the lark, but you are right I would have noticed the specific markings of a mature male. Horned larks are not really in our area except rarely in the winter. Streaked larks are around but I have never seen one. Probably more likely would be juvenile house finch since I have oodles of finches. thanks

Gosh Kenn, your photographs are alway so wonderful. It brings me lots of joy to view them. Thanks for that. I vote for the Nuthatch this time. WOWZA! What a shot! I also love the Titmouse, and the Yellow rumped Warbler. That little warbler looks so sweet and innocent that you would never guess at its true nature! They are one of the most fiesty and territorial birds I have ever observed. Of course, the Blues are always awesome and are also my most favorites in the yard. Who doesn't adore Bluebirds, right?~~Angie