The last time that I recall seeing an American Goldfinch (Spinus tristis) was during breeding season, when the goldfinch was bright yellow in color. That breeding season is long gone and the plumage of goldfinches is a lot drabber in color. I spotted this goldfinch on Tuesday at Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge and captured this moment when the little bird was sticking out its tongue.
I am not sure if the bird was singing at the time or was merely clearing its throat. Whatever the case, it definitely was cool to be able to see the tiny tongue of the little goldfinch.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
This is one of Cartier-Bresson’s “decisive moments”. You have captured that sweet little bird at just the perfect second to see the tongue between the opened beak and it makes the image perfect. I also love the colours and hues of this shot. There is a sense of both crisp, coldness and coziness. Really fantastic photograph, Mike!
Thanks so much, Laura. I took a number of photos before and after this one as I patiently waited for the little bird to turn its head. The colors are definitely muted in the photo, but somehow they seem appropriate for the moment that I captured.