Rose-breasted Grosbeak (Pheucticus ludovicianus)

Rose-breasted Grosbeak (male) © Alan Murphy

Family: (Cardinalidae) Cardinals and Allies

Preferred Habitat: Woodlands

Seasonal Occurrence: Common in spring; uncommon in fall.

Notes: Plumage colors for males and females of this family, which includes cardinals, grosbeaks and buntings, are very different. In the case of the Rose-breasted Grosbeak, the female is streaked brown and white, looking more like a large sparrow. Rose-breasted Grosbeaks are welcome visitors to High Island in the spring where they feast on ripe mulberries. The male's red patch makes a very appropriate mulberry bib! The song is robin-like but faster and more melodious.
- Susan Billetdeaux