| Actual Image
Evening Grosbeak male 2 (74)
jeanpaul
![Gold Star Critiquer/Gold Star Workshop Editor/Gold Note Writer [C: 2009 W: 99 N: 3252]](http://i1.treknature.com/misc/g-g-g.gif) (14117) | Evening Grosbeak
Coccothraustes vespertinusOrder: PASSERIFORMESFamily: Finches (Fringillidae)
General
Evening Grosbeak: Large, stocky finch with bright orange-yellow back, rump, and underparts. Head is brown, heavy bill is pale and bright yellow eyebrows extend onto forehead. Wings are dark with bold white patches. Tail is dark. Female is similar but grayer and with white-tipped tail.
Range and Habitat
Evening Grosbeak: Breeds from British Columbia east to Nova Scotia and south to northern New England, Minnesota, the mountains of Mexico, and California. Spends winters south to California, Texas, and South Carolina; nests in coniferous forests and visits deciduous woodlands and suburban areas in the winter.
Interesting Facts
Evening Grosbeak: A recent report from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology makes it clear the lovely Evening Grosbeak is declining at backyard feeders in the East. Why? No one knows for sure, but data points to one theory which suggests changes in spruce budworm abundance which the Grosbeaks feed their young may be contributing to the decline. Originally a more Western U.S. bird, the Evening Grosbeak’s range progressively moved East and now can be found – though less frequently – all across the northern portions of the United States. Its striking plumage is a favorite of birders with feeders (like the Opus Top Flight Triple Tube feeder) and especially stops at backyards with birdbaths for a drink and a quick dip. The short, thick conical bill is perfect for sunflower seeds, fruits and nuts in the winter when this species was a more frequent visitor. Let’s hope with conservation and help from backyard feeders like ourselves, the Evening Grosbeak will remain a welcome visitor and friend. |
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