Evening Grosbeak

Overview

The evening grosbeak, scientifically known as Coccothraustes vespertinus, is a passerine bird in the finch family Fringillidae found in North America. It is a bulky, heavily built bird that breeds in coniferous and mixed forests across Canada, the western mountainous areas of the United States, and Mexico.

Identification

• Bulky body with a large pale bill and short tail.
• Adult males have a bright yellow forehead and body with a brown head and large white wing patches.
• Adult females are mainly olive-brown with greyer underparts and white wing patches.
• Distinctive loud 'chew' call, similar to a glorified house sparrow.

Habitat

The species inhabits coniferous and mixed forests across Canada, the western mountainous regions of the United States, and Mexico. Its migration pattern is variable, and it may wander as far south as the southern United States during winter. The range has expanded eastward over time, likely facilitated by the planting of Manitoba maples and the availability of bird feeders near farms.

Diet

These birds forage in trees and bushes, occasionally on the ground, and their diet mainly consists of seeds, berries, and insects. Outside of the nesting season, they often feed in flocks and may swallow fine gravel.

Did you know?

The bird's range has expanded eastward in historical times, possibly due to the planting of Manitoba maples and other shrubs near farms and the availability of winter bird feeders.