* Recognizable by obvious black cap.

* It is a common migrant and uncommon breeder. It can easily be mistaken for the Goldfinch. The latter is commonly seen feeding on wild sunflowers and has an undulating flight. The Wilson's is seen hopping in and about shrubbery looking for insects and spiders and is more secretive.

* Accepts a wide variety of habitats, primarily shrub thickets and riparian areas and edges of bogs and beaver ponds.