Michigan is home to a wonderful variety of birds, and some of the most striking ones are the red birds. These birds, with their brilliant red feathers, are a joy to see in gardens, parks, and forests. In this article, we will explore different types of red birds that you can find in Michigan. Whether you are a birdwatcher or just love nature, learning about these birds will add to your appreciation of the state’s rich wildlife. Let’s dive in and discover the beauty of Michigan’s red birds.
List of Red Birds in Michigan
| # | Bird Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Northern Cardinal | Bright red males, brown females with red accents. |
| 2 | House Finch | Males have red heads and chests. |
| 3 | Scarlet Tanager | Males are bright red with black wings. |
| 4 | Red-headed Woodpecker | Entire head is red, with black and white body. |
| 5 | Summer Tanager | Males are solid red, females are yellow. |
| 6 | Purple Finch | Males are raspberry red, females brown and streaked. |
| 7 | Pine Grosbeak | Males are rose-red, females are yellowish. |
| 8 | Common Redpoll | Red cap and chest, brown streaked body. |
| 9 | White-winged Crossbill | Males are pinkish-red, females yellow-green. |
| 10 | Vermilion Flycatcher | Bright red body with black wings and tail. |
| 11 | Cassin’s Finch | Males have a red crown and throat. |
| 12 | Red Crossbill | Males are brick red, females olive-yellow. |
| 13 | Hepatic Tanager | Males are dull red, females yellowish. |
| 14 | Painted Redstart | Bright red belly with black and white markings. |
| 15 | Pyrrhuloxia | Gray with red face and chest. |
Types of Red Birds in Michigan
Michigan is a perfect place for birdwatchers, with a wide variety of colorful birds, especially beautiful red ones. You can spot these vibrant birds everywhere—from city parks to deep forests—adding bright color to Michigan’s natural beauty. Here’s a look at 15 amazing types of red birds found in Michigan. We’ll explore their looks, favorite habitats, what they eat, and other interesting facts about each one.
Northern Cardinal: The Bright Red Bird of Michigan
- Scientific Name: Cardinalis cardinalis
- Size: About 21–23 cm (8–9 inches) long
- Weight: 42–48 grams (1.5–1.7 ounces)
- Lifespan: 3–6 years
- Color: Males are bright red with a black mask; females are brown with red highlights
Description
The Northern Cardinal is one of Michigan’s most colorful and popular birds. Male cardinals are bright red with a black “mask” around their beak, while females are warm brown with touches of red on their wings and tail. Both males and females have a tall, pointed crest on their heads, giving them a unique look. Cardinals are medium-sized and have strong, thick beaks. They often build nests in shrubs or low trees, where females lay 3–4 eggs.
Diet
Northern Cardinals enjoy a mix of seeds, fruits, and insects. Sunflower seeds are their favorite, making them frequent visitors to backyard bird feeders. Cardinals also help spread seeds when they eat fruits, which supports plant growth in the area.
Habitat and Behavior
Northern Cardinals are comfortable around people and often visit gardens, parks, and yards. They are non-migratory birds, staying in Michigan all year. These friendly birds prefer places with trees and shrubs for cover and nesting. Cardinals are also known for their sweet, whistling song, which they sing to communicate and defend their territory. Their vibrant colors and cheerful nature make them a favorite sight for birdwatchers.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Sound | Clear, whistling “cheer-cheer-cheer” or “birdie-birdie-birdie” |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern |
| Wingspan | 25–31 cm (10–12 inches) |
| Migration Pattern | Non-migratory, stays in Michigan year-round |
| Breeding Season | March to September |
| Unique Fact | Both males and females sing, which is uncommon for songbirds |
House Finch: The Friendly Red Bird of Backyards
- Scientific Name: Haemorhous mexicanus
- Size: About 12.5–15 cm (5–6 inches) long
- Weight: 16–27 grams (0.5–1 ounce)
- Lifespan: 4–6 years
- Color: Males have red on their head and chest; females are brown with light streaks
Description
The House Finch is a small, friendly bird often seen in backyards and parks. Male House Finches are easy to spot with their red heads and chests, while females are brown with soft streaks. Both have a short, thick beak that’s perfect for eating seeds. House Finches are known for their cheerful song, which they sing all year round. They usually build small nests in trees, bushes, or even on buildings, laying about 4–5 eggs each season.
Diet
House Finches love to eat seeds, especially sunflower seeds, and will happily visit bird feeders. They also eat small fruits and berries when they find them. This diet helps spread seeds, benefiting plants and trees.
Habitat and Behavior
House Finches are adaptable birds that thrive in both city and countryside areas. They are comfortable around people and can be seen in gardens, parks, and suburban yards. These social birds often gather in small groups and are easy to attract with a feeder filled with sunflower seeds. House Finches are known for their friendly nature and their cheerful, warbling song that adds life to any backyard.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Sound | Cheerful, warbling song |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern |
| Wingspan | 20–25 cm (8–10 inches) |
| Migration Pattern | Primarily non-migratory, though some populations move short distances |
| Breeding Season | March to August |
| Unique Fact | Originally native to the western U.S., introduced to the East in the 1940s |
Scarlet Tanager: The Bright Red Bird of Michigan
- Scientific Name: Piranga olivacea
- Size: About 17–19 cm (6.5–7.5 inches) long
- Weight: 23–38 grams (0.8–1.3 ounces)
- Lifespan: 5–10 years
- Color: Males are bright red with black wings and tail; females are olive-yellow
Description
The Scarlet Tanager is easy to spot because of its bright colors. Male tanagers are bright red with black wings and tail, while females are olive-yellow, blending in with the leaves. These medium-sized birds have a strong beak and slightly rounded tails. Females build small nests high up in the trees, where they lay 3–5 eggs. Both parents feed the chicks until they are ready to fly.
Diet
Scarlet Tanagers mostly eat insects like beetles, ants, and caterpillars. They also enjoy fruits and berries, especially in late summer. By eating these foods, they help control insect numbers and spread seeds, which is good for the forest.
Habitat and Behavior
Scarlet Tanagers live in mature forests with tall trees. They like to stay high up in the branches, where they are safe and can build nests. In winter, they fly south to South America, returning to Michigan each spring. Tanagers are a bit shy and prefer to stay hidden, but their bright colors and unique raspy song make them special for birdwatchers who spot them.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Sound | Raspy song, like a robin with a “sore throat” |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern |
| Wingspan | 28–30 cm (11–12 inches) |
| Migration Pattern | Migrates to South America for winter |
| Breeding Season | Late spring to early summer |
| Unique Fact | Males turn yellowish-green outside the breeding season |
Red-headed Woodpecker: The Striking Bird of Michigan’s Forests
- Scientific Name: Melanerpes erythrocephalus
- Size: About 19–23 cm (7.5–9 inches) long
- Weight: 56–91 grams (2–3.2 ounces)
- Lifespan: 9–12 years
- Color: Bright red head, black back, and white belly with white patches on the wings
Description
The Red-headed Woodpecker is a striking bird with a bold red head that stands out against its black back and white underparts. Both males and females look the same, making them easy to identify by color alone. Their wings have large white patches, which are visible when they fly. These woodpeckers are known for their strong beaks, used to drill into trees to find insects or make nesting cavities.
Diet
Red-headed Woodpeckers eat a variety of foods, including insects, nuts, fruits, and seeds. They are also one of the few woodpeckers that store food, often hiding nuts and seeds in tree crevices for later. Their diverse diet helps them thrive in different seasons, and they are particularly helpful in controlling insect populations.
Habitat and Behavior
Red-headed Woodpeckers prefer open woodlands, forest edges, and even some suburban areas with large, mature trees. They are often seen in Michigan during the warmer months and may migrate south in winter if food becomes scarce. Known for their acrobatic flight and loud, chattering calls, they are social birds that defend their territory aggressively. Their bright red head and distinctive black-and-white pattern make them a memorable sight for bird enthusiasts.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Sound | Loud, shrill “queer-queer” call |
| Conservation Status | Near Threatened |
| Wingspan | 42–46 cm (16.5–18 inches) |
| Migration Pattern | Some migrate south; others remain year-round |
| Breeding Season | Late spring through summer |
| Unique Fact | Known for storing food by wedging insects or seeds into tree bark |
Summer Tanager: The Vibrant Red Bird of the Forests
- Scientific Name: Piranga rubra
- Size: About 17 cm (6.7 inches) long
- Weight: 29 grams (1 ounce)
- Lifespan: 5–7 years
- Color: Males are bright red; females are yellow to yellow-green
Description
The Summer Tanager is a beautiful bird known for its bold colors. Male Summer Tanagers are entirely bright red, making them stand out among the greenery. Females, however, are yellow to yellow-green, which helps them blend in better with their surroundings. These medium-sized birds have a slightly thick beak suited for catching insects. Unlike some birds, males and females are easily distinguished by their color differences.
Diet
Summer Tanagers primarily eat insects, especially bees and wasps. They are skilled hunters, often catching these insects in mid-air and removing the stingers before eating. They also enjoy fruits and berries, particularly during late summer and fall, which helps them prepare for migration.
Habitat and Behavior
Summer Tanagers are found in open woodlands, especially near oak and pine trees. They are often seen in Michigan during the warmer months before migrating to Central and South America for the winter. These birds prefer high perches in trees, where they can sing their sweet, robin-like song. Although not as commonly seen as other birds, their vibrant color and unique diet make them a special find for birdwatchers in Michigan’s forests.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Sound | Smooth, clear song, similar to a robin’s |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern |
| Wingspan | 28–30 cm (11–12 inches) |
| Migration Pattern | Migrates to Central and South America in winter |
| Breeding Season | Late spring to early summer |
| Unique Fact | Specializes in eating bees and wasps, removing their stingers before eating |
Purple Finch: The Rosy Songbird of North America
- Scientific Name: Haemorhous purpureus
- Size: About 12–16 cm (4.7–6.3 inches) long
- Weight: 18–32 grams (0.6–1.1 ounces)
- Lifespan: 2–4 years
- Color: Males are raspberry-red; females are brown with white streaks
Description
The Purple Finch is known for its warm, rosy colors. Male Purple Finches have a raspberry-red wash over their head, chest, and back, giving them a soft, colorful appearance. Females, however, are more subtly colored, with brown feathers and white streaks, which helps them blend into wooded surroundings. Both males and females have a sturdy beak, perfect for cracking open seeds.
Diet
Purple Finches mainly eat seeds, buds, and fruits. They are especially fond of sunflower seeds, making them frequent visitors to backyard feeders. In the wild, they also eat tree buds and small fruits, which helps disperse seeds and supports plant growth.
Habitat and Behavior
Purple Finches are commonly found in mixed woodlands, parks, and gardens. They are adaptable birds and can live in both forests and more open suburban areas. In winter, they may move south, depending on food availability. These birds are social and often seen in small groups, singing their cheerful, warbling song. Their rosy color and friendly behavior make them a delightful sight in any backyard or woodland area.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Sound | Rich, bubbly warbling song |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern |
| Wingspan | 22–26 cm (8.5–10 inches) |
| Migration Pattern | Moves south in winter, but migration is irregular |
| Breeding Season | April to July |
| Unique Fact | Often confused with the House Finch, but has a more vivid raspberry-red color |
Pine Grosbeak: The Gentle Giant of Northern Forests
- Scientific Name: Pinicola enucleator
- Size: About 20–25 cm (8–10 inches) long
- Weight: 52–78 grams (1.8–2.8 ounces)
- Lifespan: 8–10 years
- Color: Males are rosy-red; females are yellowish-gray with hints of orange
Description
The Pine Grosbeak is a large, gentle finch with a striking appearance. Male Pine Grosbeaks are rosy-red across their head and body, creating a beautiful contrast in snowy northern forests. Females are softer in color, featuring a yellowish-gray body with touches of orange on the head and back. Both males and females have a thick, curved beak designed for cracking open seeds and fruit.
Diet
Pine Grosbeaks primarily eat seeds, buds, and fruits. In winter, they feed on mountain ash berries and other fruits found in the northern forests. They also enjoy buds from trees and shrubs, which helps them survive in colder months when other food sources are scarce.
Habitat and Behavior
Pine Grosbeaks are typically found in boreal forests, especially among pines, spruces, and firs. They are gentle and approachable birds, often unafraid of humans, which makes them a pleasure to watch up close. In winter, they may move southward in search of food, bringing their vibrant colors to new areas. Known for their slow, warbling song, Pine Grosbeaks are social and often seen in small flocks, adding life and color to the quiet, snowy landscapes of their habitat.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Sound | Slow, flute-like whistles |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern |
| Wingspan | 33 cm (13 inches) |
| Migration Pattern | Occasional winter irruptions southward if food is scarce |
| Breeding Season | Mid-summer |
| Unique Fact | Known as the “gentle giant” of the finch family due to its calm nature |
Common Redpoll: The Hardy Finch of the Far North
- Scientific Name: Acanthis flammea
- Size: About 12–14 cm (4.5–5.5 inches) long
- Weight: 12–16 grams (0.4–0.6 ounces)
- Lifespan: 2–6 years
- Color: Light brown with streaks, bright red patch on the forehead, and rosy chest in males
Description
The Common Redpoll is a small, lively finch known for its bright red patch on the forehead, giving it a cheerful appearance. Males often have a rosy pink wash on their chest, while females are more subtly streaked in brown and white. Their small, pointed beaks are ideal for picking up tiny seeds, which is their primary food source. Common Redpolls also have a fluffy appearance due to extra feathering, which helps them stay warm in cold climates.
Diet
Common Redpolls mainly eat seeds, especially from birch, alder, and spruce trees. They are frequent visitors to backyard feeders in winter, where they enjoy nyjer (thistle) and sunflower seeds. Redpolls have a unique pouch in their throat, allowing them to gather and store seeds to eat later, especially useful during the frigid winter months.
Habitat and Behavior
These hardy little birds are commonly found in the northern boreal forests and tundra. During the winter, they often migrate southward in search of food, bringing their lively flocks to more temperate regions. Redpolls are social birds, usually seen in groups, and they’re known for their energetic behavior, constantly flitting about and chattering with a high, twittering call. Their resilience to cold and cheerful nature make them a favorite among winter birdwatchers.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Sound | High-pitched “chit-chit” call |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern |
| Wingspan | 20–25 cm (8–10 inches) |
| Migration Pattern | Moves southward in winter, depending on food availability |
| Breeding Season | May to August |
| Unique Fact | Has a throat pouch for storing seeds to eat later, especially helpful in winter |
White-winged Crossbill: The Unique Seed Specialist of Northern Forests
- Scientific Name: Loxia leucoptera
- Size: About 15–17 cm (6–7 inches) long
- Weight: 24–31 grams (0.8–1.1 ounces)
- Lifespan: 4–8 years
- Color: Males are rosy-red with black wings and white wing bars; females are yellowish-green with white wing bars
Description
The White-winged Crossbill is a distinctive bird known for its unique, crossed beak, which allows it to pry open conifer cones to access seeds. Male White-winged Crossbills have a striking rosy-red body with black wings marked by bold white wing bars, while females are yellowish-green with similar wing markings. Their crossed bills are specifically adapted for feeding on seeds from spruce, pine, and fir trees, making them true specialists of northern forests.
Diet
White-winged Crossbills primarily eat conifer seeds and are remarkably efficient at extracting them from cones. They can consume hundreds of seeds daily, and their crossed bills are perfect for prying open the tightly closed cones of conifer trees. In addition to seeds, they occasionally eat insects, especially during the breeding season when they need extra protein.
Habitat and Behavior
These crossbills are usually found in boreal forests and high-altitude regions, where conifer trees are abundant. They are highly nomadic and will travel long distances to find areas with plentiful seed supplies. White-winged Crossbills are social birds, often seen in flocks, and are known for their cheerful chattering and warbling calls. Because they rely so heavily on conifer seeds, they may breed at any time of year if food is plentiful, even during winter, making them unique among northern birds. Their adaptability and specialized feeding habits make them fascinating to observe in their natural habitat.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Sound | High, twittering call |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern |
| Wingspan | 25–27 cm (10–11 inches) |
| Migration Pattern | Highly nomadic, moving to follow cone crops |
| Breeding Season | Can breed year-round if food is plentiful |
| Unique Fact | Uses its crossed bill to open conifer cones and access seeds |
Vermilion Flycatcher: The Fiery Red Flycatcher of the Southwest
- Scientific Name: Pyrocephalus rubinus
- Size: About 13–14 cm (5–5.5 inches) long
- Weight: 11–14 grams (0.4–0.5 ounces)
- Lifespan: 4–5 years
- Color: Males are brilliant red with dark brown wings and tail; females are grayish-brown with a pale underside and sometimes a touch of red on the belly
Description
The Vermilion Flycatcher is a small, striking bird known for the fiery red color of the males. Male Vermilion Flycatchers are bright red across their head and body, with dark brown wings and tail, creating a vivid contrast that’s hard to miss. Females, however, are more subdued in color, appearing grayish-brown with a pale belly and sometimes a hint of pink or red on the lower belly. Their slender, pointed beak is perfect for catching insects on the wing, as they are expert flycatchers.
Diet
As insectivores, Vermilion Flycatchers feed primarily on flying insects like flies, beetles, and grasshoppers. They often hunt by perching on a branch or fence, waiting for insects to pass by before making quick, agile flights to catch their prey mid-air. This feeding style is called “hawking,” and it’s typical for flycatchers.
Habitat and Behavior
Vermilion Flycatchers are commonly found in open areas, such as deserts, savannas, and along riverbanks, especially in the southwestern United States, Mexico, and parts of Central and South America. They prefer places with scattered trees and open spaces for hunting. These birds are territorial and can often be seen perched in prominent spots, singing to establish their territory. Known for their stunning colors and agile hunting, Vermilion Flycatchers are a favorite among birdwatchers wherever they are found.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Sound | Rapid, high-pitched “peet-peet” |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern |
| Wingspan | 24–28 cm (9.5–11 inches) |
| Migration Pattern | Non-migratory in much of its range, but some northern populations move south in winter |
| Breeding Season | Early spring |
| Unique Fact | Males perform aerial displays, showing off their bright colors to attract mates |
Cassin’s Finch: The Mountain Finch of the West
- Scientific Name: Haemorhous cassinii
- Size: About 15–16 cm (6–6.5 inches) long
- Weight: 24–34 grams (0.8–1.2 ounces)
- Lifespan: 4–7 years
- Color: Males have a bright pinkish-red crown and chest; females are brown with streaks
Description
Cassin’s Finch is a mountain-loving bird known for its soft, rosy hues. Male Cassin’s Finches are easily identified by their pinkish-red crown and chest, which is slightly more intense around the head and fades into lighter tones on the back and belly. Females and young birds are streaked brown and white, resembling sparrows but with a more robust body and thicker beak. Both sexes have a strong, slightly curved beak, perfect for cracking open seeds.
Diet
Cassin’s Finches primarily eat seeds, buds, and small fruits. They enjoy conifer seeds and are often found around pine, spruce, and fir trees. In spring and summer, they may also eat insects, which provide additional nutrients during the breeding season. When visiting feeders, they are fond of sunflower seeds and can be attracted with this food in backyard settings near their range.
Habitat and Behavior
Cassin’s Finches are typically found in mountainous regions of the western United States and Canada, preferring open forests, especially pine and mixed-conifer forests. They are social birds, often seen in flocks, and are known for their sweet, warbling song. In winter, they may move to lower elevations in search of food, sometimes venturing into backyard feeders. Cassin’s Finches are often confused with Purple Finches, but their preference for higher elevations and distinctive coloring helps birdwatchers identify them correctly. Their cheerful presence and song make them a delightful sight in the mountainous habitats they call home.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Sound | Rich, warbling song |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern |
| Wingspan | 25–26 cm (10 inches) |
| Migration Pattern | Some populations move to lower elevations in winter |
| Breeding Season | Late spring through summer |
| Unique Fact | Known for its sweet, melodic song that echoes through the mountain forests |
Red Crossbill: The Specialized Seed Eater of Conifer Forests
- Scientific Name: Loxia curvirostra
- Size: About 14–20 cm (5.5–8 inches) long
- Weight: 23–40 grams (0.8–1.4 ounces)
- Lifespan: 4–8 years
- Color: Males are brick-red; females are yellowish or olive-green
Description
The Red Crossbill is a unique bird recognized for its distinctive crossed beak, which is perfectly adapted for prying open conifer cones to access seeds. Male Red Crossbills are generally a deep brick-red color, while females are yellowish or olive-green. Both have strong, slightly curved bills that cross at the tips—a specialized feature that helps them extract seeds from pine, spruce, and fir cones.
Diet
Red Crossbills primarily feed on seeds from conifer cones, such as pine and spruce seeds. Their unique bill shape allows them to pry open the cones efficiently. They consume large amounts of seeds daily and even store some in throat pouches to eat later. In the warmer months, they may also eat insects, which provide additional nutrients, especially during the breeding season.
Habitat and Behavior
Red Crossbills are commonly found in boreal and mountainous forests across North America, particularly in areas with dense conifer trees. They are highly nomadic, moving long distances to find good seed supplies, which can vary widely from year to year. Red Crossbills are social and often seen in flocks, chattering and calling with a distinctive “jip-jip” sound. Their adaptability and specialized feeding habits make them fascinating to observe, as they can breed at almost any time of year if there’s an abundance of food, a rare trait among northern birds.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Sound | Sharp “jip-jip” call |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern |
| Wingspan | 27–31 cm (10.5–12 inches) |
| Migration Pattern | Nomadic, moving with cone crops |
| Breeding Season | Can breed any time if food is available |
| Unique Fact | Crossed bill allows it to pry open conifer cones for seeds |
Hepatic Tanager: The Subtle Red Bird of Southwestern Woodlands
- Scientific Name: Piranga flava
- Size: About 18–20 cm (7–8 inches) long
- Weight: 24–38 grams (0.8–1.3 ounces)
- Lifespan: 5–7 years
- Color: Males are dull red with a grayish wash on their back; females are yellowish-orange with olive tones
Description
The Hepatic Tanager is a unique member of the tanager family, with a more muted color than some of its brighter relatives. Male Hepatic Tanagers are a subtle, brick-red with a grayish wash across their back, distinguishing them from the more vivid Summer Tanager. Females are a warm yellowish-orange with olive undertones, allowing them to blend into the forest. Their medium-sized, sturdy build and strong beak make them excellent at foraging for insects and fruits.
Diet
Hepatic Tanagers are primarily insectivores, feeding on insects such as beetles, caterpillars, and wasps, which they often catch on the ground or from branches. They also enjoy fruits and berries, especially in late summer and fall, helping them store energy for cooler months.
Habitat and Behavior
This tanager prefers open woodlands, especially in pine-oak forests of the southwestern United States, Mexico, and Central America. They are most commonly seen in higher elevations, unlike other tanagers that favor lowland tropical areas. Hepatic Tanagers are generally solitary or seen in pairs, unlike some other more social bird species. Their soft, whistling song and territorial behavior make them easier to detect in their forest habitats. Although they aren’t as brightly colored as other tanagers, their calm demeanor and distinctive coloration make them a delightful find for birdwatchers in southwestern woodlands.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Sound | Soft, clear whistles |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern |
| Wingspan | 28–30 cm (11–12 inches) |
| Migration Pattern | Migrates to Central and South America in winter |
| Breeding Season | Late spring to early summer |
| Unique Fact | Only tanager with a grayish back, giving it a unique “hepatitic” (liver-colored) look |
Painted Redstart: The Striking Red, Black, and White Warbler of the Southwest
- Scientific Name: Myioborus pictus
- Size: About 13–15 cm (5–6 inches) long
- Weight: 9–11 grams (0.3–0.4 ounces)
- Lifespan: 4–6 years
- Color: Black body with bright red belly, white wing patches, and white outer tail feathers
Description
The Painted Redstart is a striking warbler known for its bold black, red, and white colors. This bird has a sleek black body with a bright red belly that extends to its underparts. It features distinctive white patches on its wings and outer tail feathers, which it frequently fans to startle insects while foraging. Both males and females look alike, making them easy to identify by their unique coloration.
Diet
Painted Redstarts primarily feed on insects and other small invertebrates. They use an active foraging method, fanning their tails and wings to flush out insects from leaves and branches. During the colder months, they may also eat berries, supplementing their diet with the nutrients needed to thrive.
Habitat and Behavior
Painted Redstarts are found in wooded canyons, particularly in pine-oak and mixed forests of the southwestern United States, Mexico, and Central America. They are highly active birds and are often seen flitting about, flashing their tails and wings as they hunt for insects. Known for their sweet, melodious song, Painted Redstarts are a favorite among birdwatchers. Their vibrant colors and energetic foraging behaviors make them an eye-catching sight in the lush, shady canyons they inhabit.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Sound | High-pitched, clear whistles |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern |
| Wingspan | 22–24 cm (8.5–9.5 inches) |
| Migration Pattern | Migrates to higher elevations in warmer months, winters at lower elevations |
| Breeding Season | Spring |
| Unique Fact | Fans its tail and wings to flush insects while hunting |
Pyrrhuloxia: The Desert Cardinal of the Southwest
- Scientific Name: Cardinalis sinuatus
- Size: About 20–23 cm (8–9 inches) long
- Weight: 24–43 grams (0.8–1.5 ounces)
- Lifespan: 5–8 years
- Color: Males are gray with red accents on the face, chest, and wings; females are mostly gray with subtle red highlights
Description
The Pyrrhuloxia, often called the “Desert Cardinal,” is closely related to the Northern Cardinal but has a more muted color palette that suits its arid habitat. Male Pyrrhuloxias are gray with striking red accents on their face, chest, and wings, while females are mostly gray with softer red highlights. Both males and females have a distinctive yellow, parrot-like beak and a tall, crest-like tuft on their head, similar to their Northern Cardinal relatives but with a slightly curved, stouter bill.
Diet
Pyrrhuloxias feed primarily on seeds and fruits, making them well-suited for desert life. They enjoy cactus fruits, mesquite seeds, and a variety of small insects, especially in the breeding season. They are frequent visitors to feeders stocked with sunflower seeds and cracked corn, particularly in winter.
Habitat and Behavior
These birds are commonly found in desert scrublands, mesquite groves, and areas with dense shrubs in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Pyrrhuloxias are social birds, often seen in small flocks outside the breeding season. They are known for their distinctive, clear whistling calls that are similar to those of the Northern Cardinal. Their subtle beauty, adaptability to harsh environments, and unique appearance make the Pyrrhuloxia a favorite among birdwatchers in the Southwest’s desert landscapes.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Sound | Whistling calls similar to the Northern Cardinal |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern |
| Wingspan | 25–30 cm (10–12 inches) |
| Migration Pattern | Non-migratory |
| Breeding Season | Late spring through summer |
| Unique Fact | Often called the “Desert Cardinal” due to its similar look and behavior to the Northern Cardinal |
How to Attract Red Birds in Michigan
Offer the Right Food
Red birds love certain types of seeds, fruits, and insects. To attract them, try offering foods like:
- Sunflower Seeds: Black oil sunflower seeds are favorites of Northern Cardinals, House Finches, and Purple Finches.
- Safflower Seeds: Cardinals enjoy these seeds, and they also help keep squirrels away.
- Nyjer (Thistle) Seeds: Finches, especially House and Purple Finches, love these tiny seeds.
- Fruit: Fresh fruits like apple slices, oranges, and berries attract Scarlet Tanagers and Vermilion Flycatchers.
- Mealworms: These are great for insect-eating birds like the Painted Redstart and Summer Tanager.
Use the Right Feeders
Different feeders work best for different birds:
- Platform Feeders: Cardinals and grosbeaks prefer platform feeders, which give them plenty of space to eat.
- Tube Feeders: Finches enjoy smaller perches, making tube feeders a good choice.
- Suet Feeders: Woodpeckers like the Red-headed Woodpecker enjoy suet, which provides energy and protein, and suet feeders suit them well.
Plant Native Shrubs and Trees
Native plants offer food, shelter, and nesting spots. Try adding:
- Berry Bushes: Bushes like dogwood, serviceberry, and elderberry provide berries that tanagers and finches love.
- Fruit Trees: Apple and crabapple trees produce fruit that attracts many red birds.
- Conifer Trees: Pine, spruce, and fir trees give seeds and cover, attracting birds like the Red Crossbill and Common Redpoll.
Provide Fresh Water
Water is important for all birds. Add a bird bath or small fountain to your yard. In winter, a heated bird bath keeps water from freezing, so birds can visit even in cold weather.
Create Safe Nesting Spots
Dense shrubs, small trees, and brush piles give birds safe places to nest. Avoid trimming these areas during spring and summer, as this is their nesting season.
Avoid Pesticides
Many red birds, like Scarlet Tanagers and Painted Redstarts, eat insects. Keeping your yard pesticide-free helps keep a healthy insect population for them to feed on.
By providing food, water, shelter, and safe spaces, you can make your backyard a welcoming place for Michigan’s beautiful red birds.
Conclusion
Michigan’s red birds add a splash of color and charm to the state’s diverse landscapes, from city parks to dense forests. With their vibrant feathers and unique behaviors, species like the Northern Cardinal, Scarlet Tanager, and Red-headed Woodpecker captivate birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.
By understanding their appearances, habitats, diets, and seasonal movements, we gain a deeper appreciation for these beautiful birds and the role they play in Michigan’s ecosystems. Whether spotting them in your backyard or on a nature trail, Michigan’s red birds are a true delight and a reminder of the state’s rich wildlife diversity.
By adding the right bird feeders, providing fresh water, and creating a welcoming environment, you can attract these beautiful red birds to your yard. Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or just enjoy spotting wildlife, observing these red birds can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience.
FAQs About Red Birds in Michigan
1. What is the most common red bird in Michigan?
The Northern Cardinal is the most common red bird in Michigan. Its bright red plumage makes it easily recognizable, and it is often seen in gardens, woodlands, and backyards.
2. When is the best time to see red birds in Michigan?
Red birds can be seen throughout the year in Michigan. However, winter is a great time to spot species like the Common Redpoll and Purple Finch, as they often come to bird feeders looking for food. The Northern Cardinal is a year-round resident and can be spotted in all seasons.
3. What kind of feeders attract red birds?
Red birds like the Northern Cardinal and House Finch are attracted to feeders filled with seeds. Sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, and nyjer seeds are particularly appealing. Platform feeders or tube feeders with perches work well for these species.
4. Are red birds in Michigan migratory?
Some red birds in Michigan are migratory, while others are year-round residents. For example, the Scarlet Tanager migrates south for the winter, while the Northern Cardinal stays in Michigan throughout the year.
5. How can I attract red birds to my yard?
To attract red birds to your yard, consider the following tips:
- Use bird feeders stocked with seeds like sunflower or safflower.
- Provide fresh water in a birdbath.
- Offer shelter with shrubs, trees, or birdhouses.
- Keep your yard bird-friendly by avoiding pesticides and providing a natural habitat.
6. What do red birds eat?
Red birds’ diets vary by species. For instance:
- Northern Cardinals enjoy seeds, fruits, and insects.
- House Finches primarily eat seeds and fruits.
- Scarlet Tanagers feed on insects and fruits.
Providing a variety of seeds and fruits can attract different types of red birds to your yard.
7. How can I tell the difference between male and female red birds?
In many red bird species, males have brighter and more vivid red plumage compared to females. For example:
- Northern Cardinals: Males are bright red, while females are brown with red accents.
- Scarlet Tanagers: Males are all red, while females are olive-yellow.
- House Finches: Males have red on their heads and chests, while females are brown and streaked.
8. Do red birds in Michigan sing?
Yes, many red birds are known for their songs. For example:
- Northern Cardinals are famous for their loud, clear songs.
- Scarlet Tanagers have a beautiful song often heard in their forest habitats.
- House Finches have a varied and melodious song.
9. What is the lifespan of red birds in Michigan?
The lifespan of red birds can vary by species. For instance:
- Northern Cardinals can live up to 15 years, though the average is about 3 years.
- House Finches typically live around 9 to 10 years.
- Common Redpolls usually live around 2 years.
10. Can red birds be seen in urban areas?
Yes, many red birds can adapt to urban environments. The House Finch is commonly seen in cities and suburban areas. The Northern Cardinal also frequents urban gardens and parks. Providing suitable food and habitat can encourage these birds to visit your urban yard.
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