Have you ever seen a bird with a striking red head and wondered what species it is? With so many birds featuring red on their heads, it can be a challenging task to identify them. But don’t worry, this guide has got you covered!
Top 25 North American Birds with Red Heads:
- Northern Cardinal (35%)
- House Finch (23.8%)
- Downy Woodpecker (23.6%)
- Red-bellied Woodpecker (21.2%)
- Barn Swallow (11.1%)
- Hairy Woodpecker (8%)
- Pileated Woodpecker (6.3%)
- Anna’s Hummingbird (5.8%)
- Ruby-throated Hummingbird (5.4%)
- Palm Warbler (3.5%)
- Yellow-bellied Sapsucker (3%)
- Purple Finch (2.9%)
- Scarlet Tanager (2.3%)
- Acorn Woodpecker (2%)
- Red-headed Woodpecker (2%)
- Redhead (1.9%)
- Summer Tanager (1.7%)
- Western Tanager (1.5%)
- Vermilion Flycatcher (0.7%)
- Red Crossbill (0.6%)
- Cassin’s Finch (0.5%)
- Red-breasted Sapsucker (0.5%)
- Common Redpoll (0.5%)
- Pyrrhuloxia (0.4%)
- Pine Grosbeak (0.2%)
These birds were identified by cross-referencing 500 species of birds with red anywhere on their heads with all 1000 bird species sighted in North America. The percentages represent how frequently these birds were recorded in checklists on ebird.org.
Identification Information and Photos of North American Birds with Red Heads
This guide provides identification information and photos to help you identify the 25 North American bird species with red heads. So, the next time you spot a bird with a red head, you can easily identify it with the help of this comprehensive guide.
1. The Northern Cardinal: A Brilliant Red Bird with a Showy Appearance
The Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) is a stunning bird with a red head, body, and tail, and black around their faces. They are a common sight in the eastern and southern states of North America, especially in winter when their bright colors stand out against the snowy background.
Appearance and Behavior
Male Northern Cardinals are known for their bright red plumage, while the females are a little more subtle with their brown coloring, sharp brown crest, and red beaks. Both sexes have red highlights on their wings and tails, and their distinctive crests give them a regal appearance.
During breeding season, male Northern Cardinals become very territorial and will even attack their own reflection in a window or mirror, thinking it’s a rival bird encroaching on their territory.
Feeding Habits
Northern Cardinals are a popular backyard bird and can be attracted to feeders with sunflower seeds, peanut hearts, millet, and milo. They will feed on large tube feeders, hoppers, platform feeders, or food scattered on the ground.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Northern Cardinal is a striking bird that brings color and beauty to our backyards and gardens. Attracting them to your feeders is easy and can provide hours of entertainment as you watch these regal birds come and go.
2. Attracting House Finches to Your Backyard: A Comprehensive Guide
House Finches are one of the most popular birds to attract to your backyard. With their stunning red head and breast, the males are truly a sight to behold, while the brown-streaked coloring of the females is equally striking. Originally found only in western states, House Finches have been introduced to the eastern states and have thrived, even pushing out the Purple Finch.
Habitat and Distribution
House Finches can be found in a variety of habitats, including parks, farms, forest edges, and backyard feeders. They are known for their noisy and sociable nature, often congregating in large groups that are hard to miss.
Diet
To attract more House Finches to your backyard, it is essential to provide them with the right food. These birds are particularly fond of black oil sunflower seeds and nyjer seeds, which can be offered in tube feeders or platform feeders. Make sure to keep the feeders clean and well-stocked, and you’re likely to see these beautiful birds visiting your backyard regularly.
Tips for Attracting House Finches
In addition to providing the right food, there are several other steps you can take to attract House Finches to your backyard. Here are a few tips:
- Plant native vegetation: House Finches are attracted to natural habitats, so planting native vegetation can help attract them to your yard.
- Offer water: Like all birds, House Finches need access to water. A birdbath or other water feature can be a great way to entice them to your yard.
- Provide shelter: House Finches need places to hide from predators and bad weather. Providing birdhouses or other types of shelter can help them feel safe and secure in your yard.
In Conclusion
House Finches are a beautiful and sociable bird that can be easily attracted to your backyard. With the right food, habitat, and shelter, you can enjoy these stunning birds in your own backyard. So get started today and enjoy the beauty and company of these wonderful birds!
3. Downy Woodpecker: Facts and Information
The Downy Woodpecker (Picoides pubescens) is a small, yet common bird that can often be seen at backyard feeders. In this article, we’ll explore some interesting facts and information about this lovely bird.
Appearance and Behavior
The Downy Woodpecker has a distinct black and white pattern on its feathers, with a white back and black wings. Males have a small red patch at the back of their heads, which females lack. This bird is often confused with the Hairy Woodpecker due to their similar appearance, but the Downy is smaller in size and has a shorter bill.
They are social birds and can often be found mixed in with other small birds such as chickadees and nuthatches. Downy Woodpeckers are also known for their drumming behavior, which is a rapid tapping on a tree or other object as a means of communication and territory defense.
Habitat and Distribution
Downy Woodpeckers are common throughout most states in North America. They prefer wooded areas, but can also be found in suburban and urban areas with trees and shrubs. They are non-migratory birds and can be seen year-round in their preferred habitats.
Feeding Habits
To attract more Downy Woodpeckers to your backyard, consider offering suet feeders. They also enjoy black oil sunflower seeds, millet, and peanuts on platform feeders. Providing a diverse range of food options can increase the likelihood of attracting these beautiful birds.
Conclusion: In summary, the Downy Woodpecker is a delightful bird to observe and attract to your backyard. With its unique appearance, behavior, and feeding habits, it’s no wonder why they are a popular sighting among bird enthusiasts. Consider adding a suet feeder to your backyard to increase your chances of seeing this lovely bird up close.
4. Red-Bellied Woodpecker: All You Need to Know
The Red-bellied Woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus) is a striking bird with a unique appearance and interesting behavior. In this article, we’ll explore some fascinating facts about this bird, including its appearance, habitat, behavior, and feeding habits.
Appearance and Behavior
The Red-bellied Woodpecker is named after its pale red belly, which can be difficult to spot at times. It also has a red head and nape, with a black-and-white striped back. Both males and females have similar appearances, but males have a larger red patch on their head.
They are known for their loud calls, which can be heard in the spring and summer months. Red-bellied Woodpeckers are found in Eastern states and prefer wooded areas, especially those with deadwood. They are also known for their drumming behavior, which is used for communication and territory defense.
Habitat and Distribution
Red-bellied Woodpeckers can be found in Eastern states, from the Midwest to the Atlantic coast. They prefer wooded areas with plenty of trees and shrubs, especially those with deadwood for nesting and foraging.
Feeding Habits
To attract more Red-bellied Woodpeckers to your backyard, consider offering suet feeders. They also sometimes feed on hummingbird feeders, so providing a diverse range of food options can increase your chances of attracting these lovely birds.
Conclusion
In summary, the Red-bellied Woodpecker is a beautiful bird with a unique appearance, interesting behavior, and fascinating feeding habits. With their preference for wooded areas and love for suet and nectar, they can be a delight to observe in your backyard. Consider adding suet and hummingbird feeders to your backyard to increase your chances of attracting this stunning bird.
5. Barn Swallow: Everything You Need to Know
Barn Swallows (Hirundo rustica) are a common and beloved sight across North America. With their distinctive appearance and unique nesting habits, these birds are fascinating to observe. In this article, we’ll explore some interesting facts about Barn Swallows, including their appearance, habitat, behavior, and feeding habits.
Appearance and Behavior
Barn Swallows have a unique appearance, with rusty red faces, tawny underparts, and blue backs, wings, and tails. They are small and agile, with a wingspan of up to 13 inches.
These birds are known for their aerial acrobatics, darting over fields and open water in search of insects. They have a chirping call that is distinctive and easily recognizable.
Habitat and Distribution
Barn Swallows can be found across most of North America, from Canada to Mexico. They prefer open habitats, such as fields, meadows, and wetlands, where they can find insects to feed on.
Barn Swallows are known for their unique nesting habits. They make mud nests in human-made structures, such as barns, outbuildings, and bridges. These nests are shaped like cups and are lined with feathers and other soft materials.
Feeding Habits
To attract more Barn Swallows to your backyard, consider providing ground-up eggshells on a platform feeder. This will provide the birds with the calcium they need for healthy egg production.
You can also provide a suitable place for Barn Swallows to nest by leaving an outbuilding or barn door open. This will give the birds access to a safe and secure nesting site.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Barn Swallows are a beautiful and fascinating bird species that can be found across North America. With their distinctive appearance, unique nesting habits, and aerial acrobatics, they are a joy to observe. To attract more Barn Swallows to your backyard, consider providing ground-up eggshells and a suitable nesting site. With a little effort, you can enjoy the sight of these amazing birds in your own backyard.
6. Hairy Woodpecker
Hairy Woodpeckers are a fascinating bird species found across most of North America. In this article, we’ll explore some interesting facts about these birds and how to attract them to your backyard.
Physical Appearance
Hairy Woodpeckers are black and white birds with a red spot on their heads. They are slightly larger than the Downy Woodpecker, their look-alike. Males have a red patch on the back of their heads.
Habitat and Behavior
These woodpeckers can be found in large trees and forests. They are also common visitors to backyard feeders, especially during the winter months. You may hear their distinctive tapping sound when they are looking for food.
Interesting Facts
Did you know that Hairy Woodpeckers have a special arrangement of their toes that allows them to cling to trees and other vertical surfaces? They also have shock-absorbing tissues in their skull to protect their brains from injury when they are drumming on trees.
Attracting Hairy Woodpeckers
To attract more Hairy Woodpeckers to your backyard, try providing suet feeders during the winter months when food is scarce. You can also create a suitable nesting place by leaving dead trees or branches in your yard. These birds prefer to nest in deadwood or other natural cavities.
Conclusion
Hairy Woodpeckers are a fascinating bird species with unique physical and behavioral characteristics. By providing food and nesting habitats, you can attract these birds to your backyard and enjoy observing their fascinating behavior.
7. Discovering the Majestic Pileated Woodpecker
The Pileated Woodpecker is a striking bird with a bright red crest on its head, white stripes, and a predominantly black body. It can be found in Eastern states and along the coast in the north-west. In this article, we will delve deeper into the fascinating world of the Pileated Woodpecker.
Appearance and Characteristics:
The Pileated Woodpecker is a large bird, nearly the size of a crow. The male and female birds look alike, but males have a slightly longer beak. Their striking appearance makes them easy to identify, with their red crest and bold black and white plumage. They are also known for their loud calls, which can often be heard in wooded areas.
Habitat and Behavior:
Pileated Woodpeckers are found in mature forests with plenty of dead wood, which they use to forage for carpenter ants, beetles, and other insects. They prefer to excavate large holes in dead trees to find their food, and their strong bills allow them to dig deep into the wood. They are also known to feed on fruits, nuts, and berries.
Attracting Pileated Woodpeckers:
If you want to attract Pileated Woodpeckers to your yard, you can try putting up suet feeders. Suet is a high-energy food that provides the birds with the nutrients they need to survive. You can also plant native trees and shrubs that provide the birds with food and shelter. Avoid using pesticides and herbicides, as these can be harmful to the birds and their food sources.
Conclusion: The Pileated Woodpecker is a majestic bird with a distinctive appearance and behavior. With a little effort, you can attract these beautiful birds to your yard and enjoy their calls and antics. Remember to respect their habitat and provide them with the food and shelter they need to thrive.
8. All You Need to Know About Anna’s Hummingbird
Anna’s Hummingbirds are a common sight along the Pacific Coast, known for their striking rose-pink throats and emerald green bodies in males. In this article, we will explore the unique features and behaviors of Anna’s Hummingbirds.
Appearance and Characteristics:
Male Anna’s Hummingbirds are adorned with brilliant rose-pink throats and emerald green feathers across most of their bodies. Females, on the other hand, are less colorful with a muted gray-green appearance. These birds are tiny, measuring only about the size of a ping-pong ball.
Habitat and Behavior:
Anna’s Hummingbirds can be found in gardens, parks, and other urban areas along the Pacific Coast. They are known to visit hummingbird feeders and colorful blossoms in spring to feed on nectar. They are also able to hover in place, fly backward and upside-down, and can reach speeds of up to 50 miles per hour in flight. During the breeding season, males engage in a fantastic diving display near vertically to impress females.
Attracting Anna’s Hummingbirds:
To attract Anna’s Hummingbirds to your yard, you can plant large colorful blossoms that provide them with a source of nectar. You can also set up hummingbird feeders with a solution of four parts water to one part sugar. It is important to keep the feeders clean and replace the nectar solution every three to five days to prevent mold growth.
Conclusion: Anna’s Hummingbirds are a unique and fascinating species, known for their vibrant colors and impressive flying abilities. By providing them with the right food and habitat, you can attract these beautiful birds to your yard and enjoy their enchanting presence. Remember to keep your feeders clean and to avoid using pesticides and herbicides in your garden to protect these amazing creatures.
9. Discovering the Beauty of Ruby-throated Hummingbirds
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are known for their beautiful green plumage and flash of ruby at the throat in males. In this article, we will explore the unique features and behaviors of these amazing birds.
Appearance and Characteristics:
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is predominantly green with a bright red flash at the throat in males. Females, on the other hand, are less brightly colored with a muted green appearance. These birds are small, measuring only about 3 to 3.5 inches in length and weighing only a few grams.
Habitat and Behavior:
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds breed in eastern states before migrating south for the winter. They can be found in flower gardens, woodland edges, and other areas with a rich source of nectar. They feed on tubular flowers such as trumpet creepers or cardinal flowers, honeysuckle, jewelweed, bee-balm, red buckeye, and red morning glory. These birds also feed on insects, including spiders and small insects in flight.
Attracting Ruby-throated Hummingbirds:
To attract Ruby-throated Hummingbirds to your yard, you can set up hummingbird feeders with a solution of four parts water to one part sugar. It is important to keep the feeders clean and to replace the nectar solution every three to five days to prevent mold growth. You can also plant a variety of flowers with tubular shapes to provide a rich source of nectar for these beautiful birds.
Conclusion: Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are a unique and fascinating species, known for their beautiful green plumage and red flash at the throat. By providing them with a source of nectar and a safe habitat, you can attract these amazing birds to your yard and enjoy their enchanting presence. Remember to keep your feeders clean and to avoid using pesticides and herbicides in your garden to protect these incredible creatures.
10. Exploring the Fascinating Palm Warbler
The Palm Warbler is a unique bird with a rusty red patch on its head and a brown-olive color on its back, while its underside is yellow. In this article, we will take a closer look at the characteristics and behaviors of this fascinating bird.
Appearance and Characteristics:
The Palm Warbler has a distinctive appearance, with its rusty red patch on top of the head and a yellow underside. The rest of its body is a browny-olive color, making it easy to spot in the wild. These birds breed in Canada but can be found in eastern states during migration and all year along the far south coast and Florida. They are typically 4.5 to 5 inches in length, with a wingspan of 7 to 8 inches.
Habitat and Behavior:
Palm Warblers can be found in weedy fields, forest edges, and scrubby areas during the spring and fall. They are often seen foraging on the ground for insects, which is their primary food source. They can also be found mixed in with other bird species, such as Sparrows, Juncos, and Yellow-rumped Warblers. These birds have a unique tail wagging behavior, which helps to distinguish them from other warbler species.
Spotting Palm Warblers:
The best time to spot Palm Warblers is during the spring and fall when they are migrating. You can find them in their preferred habitats, such as weedy fields, forest edges, and scrubby areas. To identify them, look for their distinctive yellow underside and rusty red patch on their head. You may also notice their unique tail wagging behavior as they forage for insects.
Conclusion: The Palm Warbler is a unique and fascinating bird, known for its distinctive appearance and tail wagging behavior. By learning more about their preferred habitats and behaviors, you can increase your chances of spotting these amazing birds in the wild. Remember to respect their natural habitat and avoid disturbing them during their migration and breeding seasons.
11. All About the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
The Yellow-bellied Sapsucker is a distinctive bird with a black and white coloration, a red patch on the top of its head and throat, and a pale yellow belly. In this article, we will explore the characteristics and behaviors of this fascinating bird.
Appearance and Characteristics: The Yellow-bellied Sapsucker is a medium-sized bird, measuring approximately 7 to 8 inches in length with a wingspan of 13 to 16 inches. They have a black and white coloration, with a red patch on their head and throat and a pale yellow belly. These birds breed in the far north and Canada and winter in the southeast.
Habitat and Behavior: Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers can be found in forests and woodlands, where they create rows of shallow holes in tree bark. They use their brush-tipped tongue to drink the sap that oozes out of the holes, as well as to catch insects that are attracted to the sap. They also eat fruit and berries and may visit suet feeders during the winter months. These birds are known to be territorial and may defend their feeding and nesting areas aggressively.
Spotting Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers: The best way to spot a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker is to look for their unique feeding behavior. Look for rows of shallow holes in tree bark, which are a telltale sign that these birds have been feeding in the area. They can also be spotted visiting suet feeders during the winter months. You may also hear their distinct calls, which are high-pitched and somewhat musical.
Conclusion: The Yellow-bellied Sapsucker is a fascinating bird with unique feeding behavior and distinctive coloration. By learning more about their preferred habitats and behaviors, you can increase your chances of spotting these amazing birds in the wild. Remember to respect their natural habitat and avoid disturbing them during their breeding and nesting seasons.
12. All You Need to Know About the Purple Finch
The Purple Finch is a common sight for bird enthusiasts, but it can be hard to differentiate from its close relative, the House Finch. Here’s everything you need to know about the Purple Finch.
Appearance and Habitat
The Purple Finch has a reddish-purple head and breast, with more brown on its back and wings. It looks similar to the House Finch, but with more reddish hues. These birds breed in Canada and overwinter in eastern states, but they can be found all year on the northeast and Pacific coasts. They are known for their fondness for black oil sunflower seeds and readily visit feeders.
Behavior and Diet
Purple Finches are social birds that often flock with other species, including Pine Siskins and American Goldfinches. They are active birds and tend to feed in trees or bushes. They primarily feed on seeds, including those from trees such as maples and pines, and they also consume insects during the breeding season.
Breeding: The Purple Finch breeds in the northern parts of North America and begins nesting in late May or early June. The female builds the nest, which is typically located in the fork of a tree, and lays a clutch of three to six eggs. The eggs hatch in about two weeks, and the young fledge in about two weeks after that.
Conclusion: The Purple Finch is a beautiful and fascinating bird that is a delight to watch. Its distinctive appearance and preference for black oil sunflower seeds make it a popular visitor to backyard feeders. By learning more about this bird’s habits and behaviors, you can better appreciate its role in the natural world.
13. How to Spot and Attract Scarlet Tanagers
Scarlet Tanagers are one of the most colorful birds in North America. Their bright red body and head, contrasted with black wings and tail, make them a sought-after sighting for birdwatchers. Here’s how to spot and attract Scarlet Tanagers to your backyard.
Spotting Scarlet Tanagers
Scarlet Tanagers breed in the eastern forests of North America during the summer before migrating to South America for the winter. They are primarily found in the forest canopy, making them difficult to spot.
To increase your chances of spotting Scarlet Tanagers, try visiting forested areas with tall trees during the breeding season. Look for their bright red color and listen for their distinctive song, which sounds like a robin but hoarser.
Attracting Scarlet Tanagers
One way to attract Scarlet Tanagers to your backyard is by planting berry bushes. They enjoy feeding on fruits like blackberries, raspberries, huckleberries, juneberries, serviceberries, mulberries, strawberries, and chokeberries. You can also offer them mealworms and suet in a feeder.
Be patient when trying to attract Scarlet Tanagers, as it may take time for them to discover your offerings. Keep your feeding stations clean and filled, and you may soon be rewarded with a glimpse of these stunning birds in your backyard.
14. Acorn Woodpecker: Appearance and Distribution
The Acorn Woodpecker is a striking bird with a bright red crest, white face, black back, and whiteish-black underparts. They have a small range in North America, inhabiting some areas in southern states and along the California coast.
Acorn Woodpecker: Behavior and Interesting Facts
These woodpeckers live in large groups in western oak woodlands and have an interesting behavior of storing thousands of acorns by jamming them into the specially made holes in trees. Additionally, they make loud parrot-like squawks from the top of trees.
Acorn Woodpecker: Feeding Habits
Although they primarily feed on insects, Acorn Woodpeckers may also visit seed and suet feeders.
Tips for Identifying Other Bird Species
If you’re interested in identifying other bird species, check out these quick photo ID guides for distinguishing male and female hummingbirds, woodpeckers, and orioles.
15. Red-Headed Woodpecker: Characteristics and Ways to Attract Them
Red-headed Woodpeckers, named for their striking red head, are beautiful birds with white bodies and black and white wings. These woodpeckers are found throughout eastern states all year long, but migrate from the far northwest during the winter months.
Habitat and Feeding Habits
These woodpeckers can be found in open woodlots, dead timber in swamps, or pine savannas. They are known for their unique feeding habits, which include storing food such as insects and seeds in cracks in wood, under bark, or even roof shingles.
Behavior and Attraction
Red-headed Woodpeckers are fierce defenders of their territory and will even remove or puncture the eggs of other species’ nests. If you’re interested in attracting Red-headed Woodpeckers to your yard, consider setting up suet feeders and providing fruit to supplement their diet.
Conclusion: Overall, Red-headed Woodpeckers are fascinating birds that add beauty and interest to any outdoor space. With their unique feeding habits and striking appearance, they are definitely worth keeping an eye out for.
16. Redhead Ducks: Characteristics and Habitat
Redhead ducks are medium-sized waterfowl with striking plumage. They have a reddish-brown head, black breast and tail, and a gray body. These ducks can be found across all states, especially in winter when they gather in large flocks, numbering thousands, along the Gulf Coast.
Habitat and Distribution
Redhead ducks breed in the prairie regions of North America, preferring shallow, reedy ponds in the Great Plains and the West. They typically nest in areas with tall emergent vegetation and are commonly found in freshwater marshes, lakes, and ponds.
During the winter, redhead ducks migrate to warmer areas and can be found in a variety of aquatic habitats, including saltwater marshes, coastal bays, and estuaries. They are commonly found along the Gulf Coast but can also be found in the southwestern and western United States.
Behavior and Diet
Redhead ducks are diving ducks and are known for their ability to dive up to 18 feet in search of food. They primarily feed on plant material, including seeds, stems, and leaves of aquatic plants, as well as invertebrates such as insects, crustaceans, and mollusks.
Breeding and Nesting
Redhead ducks breed during the late spring and early summer. The female builds the nest out of vegetation near the water’s edge and lays a clutch of 8-10 eggs. The eggs hatch after approximately 25 days, and the young leave the nest within a day after hatching, following their mother to the water to feed.
Conservation Status
Redhead ducks are classified as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) but are considered a species of special concern in some areas due to habitat loss and degradation. Efforts to conserve and protect their habitat are ongoing to ensure their populations remain stable.
17. Summer Tanager: Identification and Attraction Tips
The Summer Tanager is a beautiful songbird with striking plumage. Here’s what you need to know about identifying and attracting them to your backyard.
Identification:
The male Summer Tanager is a bright red bird, while the female is yellow. They breed in southern and eastern states before migrating to Central and South America for winter. Summer Tanagers are usually found in open woodlands and forests.
Feeding Habits:
Summer Tanagers feed on bees and wasps in mid-flight. They catch the insects and kill them by beating them against a branch before rubbing off the stinger and eating them.
Attraction Tips:
To attract Summer Tanagers to your backyard, consider planting berry bushes and fruit trees. These birds are also attracted to water sources, so consider adding a bird bath or fountain to your yard.
In conclusion, Summer Tanagers are beautiful birds with unique feeding habits. By providing the right environment and food sources, you can attract these birds to your backyard and enjoy their beauty up close.
18. Discover the Magnificent Western Tanager: Appearance, Habitat, and Attracting Tips
Western Tanagers are one of the most striking birds you can find in North America. With their bright orange-red heads, yellow bodies, and black wings, they are a sight to behold. In this article, we’ll dive deeper into their appearance, habitat, and how to attract them to your backyard.
Appearance
As mentioned, Western Tanagers have a distinct appearance that makes them easy to spot. Males have a bright orange-red head, while females have a more subdued yellow head. Their bodies are yellow, and their wings are black, making for a stunning contrast of colors. They measure around 7 inches in length, with a wingspan of 11 inches.
Habitat
Western Tanagers can be found in open conifer forests across western states, from Alaska to Mexico. During breeding season, they move towards the northern parts of their range, while in winter, they migrate south. Although they are brightly colored, they can be hard to spot as they stay hidden in the canopy of the trees.
Interestingly, the red coloring in their feathers likely comes from their diet. They feed on insects that produce a pigment that Western Tanagers can’t produce themselves.
Attracting Western Tanagers
If you want to attract Western Tanagers to your backyard, you can offer them dried fruit, cut oranges, and other fruits in bird feeders. You can also plant berry bushes and fruit trees, which will provide a natural source of food for them.
Final Thoughts
Western Tanagers are truly magnificent birds that are a joy to observe. Their bright colors and elusive nature make them a favorite among birdwatchers. If you want to attract them to your backyard, follow the tips above, and you might get lucky enough to spot them in person.
19. Discover the Brilliant Vermilion Flycatcher: A Colorful Bird of the Southwest
The Vermilion Flycatcher is a small, colorful bird found in the Southwest region of the United States. Its striking red crest, throat, and breast, along with black wings and a black eye stripe, make it an easily identifiable species for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. In this article, we will explore the characteristics, behavior, and habitat of the Vermilion Flycatcher.
Appearance: The Vermilion Flycatcher is a small bird that measures around 5 inches in length. The male has a bright red crest, throat, and breast, which contrasts with the black wings and back. The female, on the other hand, has a duller plumage, with a grayish-brown head and back, and a faint reddish tint on its belly. Juveniles resemble females but have a streaked breast and belly.
Behavior: The Vermilion Flycatcher is a skilled aerial hunter that feeds on insects, such as flies, grasshoppers, and dragonflies. It can catch prey mid-flight or from a stationary perch, which it uses to spot and chase its prey. Unlike other flycatchers that rely on foliage to forage for insects, the Vermilion Flycatcher prefers open areas, such as grasslands, deserts, and pastures.
Habitat: The Vermilion Flycatcher is a resident species in the far southern regions of the United States, including Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and Florida. It also occurs in parts of Mexico, Central America, and South America. The bird inhabits open areas with scattered trees and shrubs, as well as riparian zones, where it can find perches to spot prey. During the breeding season, males perform courtship displays, which involve flying around the female and spreading their wings and tail, revealing their colorful plumage.
Conclusion: In conclusion, the Vermilion Flycatcher is a beautiful bird that adds a splash of color to the Southwest’s arid landscapes. Its bright red plumage, unique hunting behavior, and open habitat make it a sought-after species for birdwatchers and photographers. Whether you are exploring the desert or the coast, keep an eye out for this vibrant bird, and enjoy its beauty in the wild.
20. Red Crossbill: Characteristics and Habitat
Red Crossbill is a small passerine bird with a unique appearance. Males have a brick-red plumage with darker wings and tails, while females are yellowish-green with some red on their wings and tail.
They are found year-round in northern and western states of the United States, and migrate to eastern states during the winter. They inhabit coniferous forests, where they feed on conifer seeds.
Feeding Habits of Red Crossbill
The Red Crossbill’s unique bill is adapted to feeding on conifer seeds. They can break unopened cones with their powerful and crossed bills. They can extract the seed with their tongue, while holding the cone with their feet.
In addition to coniferous forests, Red Crossbills can also be found along roadsides consuming grit in the mornings. They swallow the grit to help grind the seeds in their stomach.
Conservation Status and Interesting Facts
Red Crossbills are listed as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, their populations may be affected by habitat loss and climate change, which can impact the availability of conifer seeds.
Red Crossbills are also known for their nomadic behavior. They may move around in flocks searching for areas with high seed availability.
If you want to attract Red Crossbills to your backyard, consider providing a bird feeder with sunflower seeds or thistle.
21. Learn about Cassin’s Finch: Appearance, Range and How to Attract them to Your Backyard
Cassin’s Finch is a beautiful bird species found in mountain forests in western states. In this article, we will discuss their appearance, range, and how to attract them to your backyard.
Appearance: Cassin’s Finches are medium-sized birds with a red crown and a rosy pink head and breast. They have a whiteish belly and brown back and wings, and their beaks are conical and stout. Females have a more muted coloration, with brownish-gray replacing the red and pink.
Range: Cassin’s Finches are native to mountain forests in western states, where they forage in flocks for seeds. They can be found in California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico. They are typically found at elevations of 6,000 to 10,000 feet.
Attracting Cassin’s Finches to Your Backyard: Although Cassin’s Finches are not as common in backyards as House or Purple Finches, they can still be attracted with the right food and habitat. They are primarily seed-eaters, so sunflower seed feeders are a good option, especially in winter when food sources are scarce. Fruiting shrubs such as cotoneaster, mulberries, firethorn, grape, and apple can also attract Cassin’s Finches to your backyard.
Conclusion: Cassin’s Finch is a beautiful bird species with a distinctive appearance. They are primarily found in mountain forests in western states but can be attracted to your backyard with sunflower seed feeders and fruiting shrubs. With a little effort, you can enjoy the beauty of these birds from the comfort of your own backyard.
22. Red-breasted Sapsucker
Red-breasted Sapsuckers are small birds that have striking red heads and breasts, with black and white wings and backs, and off-white bellies. These birds are native to the Pacific Coast and can be found in coniferous forests throughout the year.
Feeding Habits: Red-breasted Sapsuckers have a unique feeding habit of making holes in trees to drink the sap. These holes also serve as a source of food for other birds like hummingbirds. In addition to sap, they also feed on fruit and insects.
Habitat and Distribution: These birds are mainly found along the Pacific Coast but can also be found in other parts of western North America. They prefer coniferous forests and are commonly found in mountainous regions.
Attracting Red-breasted Sapsuckers: If you want to attract Red-breasted Sapsuckers to your yard, you can put up a suet feeder, which is one of their favorite foods. You can also plant fruiting trees and shrubs like elderberry, serviceberry, and wild cherry.
23. Discovering the Common Redpoll: A Winter Visitor in Northern States
With a bright red forehead and pink breast, the Common Redpoll is easily recognizable among birds. Their brown and white bodies add to their unique appearance. While these birds are more common in northern states in winter, they can also be found in central states, though less frequently.
Surviving the Harsh Winter
Common Redpolls are known to burrow into the snow during the night to keep warm. They can eat up to 42% of their body weight daily and store up to 2 grams of seeds in a stretchy part of their esophagus. They usually feed on catkins in trees or weedy fields but they also come to feeders for small seeds like nyjer or thistle.
Attracting the Common Redpoll to Your Yard
To attract Common Redpolls, provide them with small seeds such as nyjer or thistle in feeders. Planting trees with catkins or providing them with weedy fields nearby may also draw them to your yard. With their unique appearance and behavior, Common Redpolls are a delight to observe during winter months.
24. Pyrrhuloxia Bird: Description, Habitat, and Diet
Pyrrhuloxia is a desert bird that belongs to the Cardinalidae family. They are found in the southwestern United States, particularly in the Sonoran and Chihuahuan deserts. Here’s everything you need to know about Pyrrhuloxia bird’s description, habitat, and diet.
Pyrrhuloxia males have a grayish body with red accents on the crest, face, and breast. They have a thick red beak, black mask, and a distinctive patch of red feathers that run down their breast and tail. Females, on the other hand, are mostly grayish-brown with red accents on their crest, wings, and tail.
Habitat: Pyrrhuloxia birds are residents of the hot deserts of the southwest, particularly in Arizona, Texas, and Mexico. They inhabit desert scrub, mesquite thickets, and riparian woodlands.
Diet: Pyrrhuloxia primarily feed on seeds, particularly those of desert shrubs, cactus, and grasses. They also eat insects, spiders, and fruits. To attract Pyrrhuloxia to your backyard, scatter sunflower seeds on the ground or provide a platform or tray feeder. They may also visit hummingbird feeders, especially during the breeding season.
In conclusion, the Pyrrhuloxia bird is a striking desert bird with distinctive red accents. They inhabit desert scrub and feed on seeds and insects. With the right food and habitat, you can attract Pyrrhuloxia to your backyard for an up-close encounter.
25. Discover the Fascinating Pine Grosbeak – A Bird with a Red Head, Breast, and Back!
The Pine Grosbeak is a unique species of finch with striking red heads, breasts, and backs, and gray wings and body. These birds are relatively large for finches and are known for their slow movements.
Habitat and Distribution
Pine Grosbeaks can be found in open spruce and pine forests in parts of the West during summer and in northern states during winter. They are not common in backyards but can be seen visiting bird feeders that offer black oil sunflower seeds during winter in the northern states.
Behavior and Diet
Pine Grosbeaks mainly feed on insects and fruit, but during winter they primarily consume seeds. They have a unique habit of using their bills to crush the seeds before eating them.
During breeding season, they can be found in pairs or small groups. However, during winter, they can form large flocks of up to 100 birds.
Conservation Status
The Pine Grosbeak is listed as a species of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. However, they are sensitive to habitat degradation and deforestation, which can impact their populations.
Conclusion: The Pine Grosbeak is a fascinating bird with its distinctive red head, breast, and back. While they may not be commonly seen in backyards, they can be found in open spruce and pine forests during summer and in northern states during winter. By providing black oil sunflower seeds, bird watchers may be able to attract Pine Grosbeaks to their feeders during winter in the northern states.
Conclusion
Great! Identifying birds can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when you can recognize their unique features like their red heads. It’s important to remember that while physical characteristics like color can be helpful in identification, other factors like habitat, behavior, and range should also be taken into consideration. Happy birdwatching!
