Rose-breasted Grosbeak

The Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Pheucticus ludovicianus, is a striking member of the cardinal family. Males are particularly notable for their black and white plumage with a vivid rose patch on their breast, earning them the colloquial name "cut-throat." Females and immatures are more subdued in coloration, with streaked underparts and a buffy wash. These robust seed-eaters are medium-sized, ranging from 18–22 cm in length, with a wingspan of 29–33 cm.

Identification Tips

Adult males in breeding plumage are unmistakable with their black heads, backs, wings, and tails, contrasted by a bright rose-red patch on the breast and white underparts. Females and non-breeding males are more cryptically colored, with streaked underparts and two white wing patches. The beak is stout and conical, suitable for their seed-based diet.

Habitat

The Rose-breasted Grosbeak favors open deciduous woods, often with a mix of mature trees and shrubs. They are found in such habitats across much of eastern North America during the breeding season.

Distribution

These birds breed throughout eastern North America and migrate to tropical America for the winter. Their migration takes them through the United States, east of the Rocky Mountains, and into Central and South America.

Behaviour

Rose-breasted Grosbeaks are territorial during the breeding season but travel in small flocks during migration and winter. They are primarily foliage gleaners but will also catch insects in flight.

Song & Calls

The male's song is a melodious warble, reminiscent of a refined American Robin. Calls include a sharp "pink" or "pick," evocative of woodpecker calls.

Breeding

Males arrive at breeding grounds before females and pair formation occurs on site. Nest building and egg laying follow, with both sexes participating in nest construction. Typically, only one brood is raised per season, with the possibility of a second in some cases.

Similar Species

Females may be confused with the Black-headed Grosbeak in areas where their ranges overlap, but can be distinguished by their slightly darker brown markings and paler streaking. The female Purple Finch is smaller with a less robust bill and a notched tail.

Diet and Feeding

The diet consists of insects, seeds, and berries. They forage in trees and shrubs, and occasionally on the ground. In winter, they can be attracted to fruiting trees and may visit bird feeders.

Conservation Status

The Rose-breasted Grosbeak is not considered a threatened species and is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. However, populations have experienced regional declines and increases, likely due to changes in habitat availability.