The Rose-breasted Grosbeak is an amusing bird and pure fun at the feeder. They are cautious birds. Rather stout in appearance with a thick triangular shaped beak perfect for crunching sunflower husks and a variety of seeds. Additionally, they will eat insects and fruit. It is likely fruit sustains them on their fall migration to South and Central America
Male Grosbeaks are feathered to the nines
The featured image is another of my impressionistic compositions where I combine painting and realism. I enjoy the look. The focus is entirely on the subject and the background adds additional interest.
These Robin-sized birds are a delight to attract. The females almost look like a large female House Finch. But the thick triangular beak is a dead giveaway. Males, on the other hand, like so many bird species, are feathered to the nines. Jet black head and back, black wings, a white breast with a brilliant red patch running down into the breast from the neck. Here is a picture of one for you to enjoy:
Concealment is paramount for the female Grosbeak
Now lets compare that to the female. The females, of course, have their drab coloration so as to blend with the surroundings of their nesting area. Concealment if paramount in bringing up the next generation.
Nesting Grosbeaks
You’ll find Grosbeaks prefer to nest in both deciduous and conifer wood plots. I find Grosbeaks on forest and woodland edges and they seem to have a preference for regenerated woodlands. Both female and male will search for a suitable nesting location, generally in the fork of a tree. Grosbeaks could learn a thing or two on nest building. Nests are loosely constructed and in some cases one can literally see the eggs through the nest! It amazes me more nests aren’t blown down due to poor construction, but being built in a tree fork probably protects them from damage.
Males share in nesting duties including incubation, feeding and protection of the nesting area. Blue Jays and Grackles will make a play for the eggs if unprotected and the a adult pair always need to be on guard for Sharp-shinned Hawks and Cooper’s Hawks.
Grosbeak’s melodic song
Grosbeaks have a beautiful song. Very melodic. As the video states, the song of the Grosbeak sounds like that of a Robin that took singing lessons!
Closing
Check out the photos I have of Rose-breasted Grosbeaks in my Songbird & Friends Gallery at RedBarnProject.com. They are a wonderful bird to attract and make a splendid addition to the yard both visually and audibly. Definitely feeder fun! Need to get in touch with me regarding a custom-sized print or other feature? Questions on ordering a print? Contact me here.
As always, Peace.
