Pennsylvania is home to a variety of beautiful red birds. Their vibrant colors make them easy to spot and fascinating to watch. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common red birds found in Pennsylvania, what they look like, where they live, and some interesting facts about them.
1. Northern Cardinal
Appearance:
- Male: Bright red all over with a black mask around the face.
- Female: Brown with reddish tinges and a red beak.
- Size: About 8-9 inches long with a wingspan of 10-12 inches.
Habitat:
- Found in woodlands, gardens, shrublands, and wetlands.
- Often seen at bird feeders.
Interesting Facts:
- Cardinals are named after the red-robed Catholic cardinals.
- They are monogamous and mate for life.
- Their song is a series of clear whistles that sounds like “cheer, cheer, cheer.”
2. Scarlet Tanager
Appearance:
- Male (Breeding Season): Bright red body with black wings and tail.
- Female: Olive-yellow with darker wings.
- Size: About 6.3-6.7 inches long with a wingspan of 9.8-11.4 inches.
Habitat:
- Prefer deciduous forests, especially those with oak trees.
- Often found high in the forest canopy.
Interesting Facts:
- Males change to a yellow-green color in the fall.
- Their song is a series of short, raspy notes.
- Scarlet Tanagers migrate to South America in the winter.
3. House Finch
Appearance:
- Male: Bright red on the head, throat, and chest with brown streaks on the back and belly.
- Female: Brown and streaked with no red.
- Size: About 5-6 inches long with a wingspan of 8-10 inches.
Habitat:
- Common in urban and suburban areas, as well as farmlands and open woodlands.
- Frequently seen at bird feeders.
Interesting Facts:
- Originally from the western United States, House Finches were introduced to the eastern U.S. in the 1940s.
- They have a cheerful, warbling song.
- House Finches can have orange or yellow coloration instead of red, depending on their diet.
4. Red-headed Woodpecker
Appearance:
- Adult: Bright red head, white body, and black wings with white patches.
- Juvenile: Brown head, which turns red as they mature.
- Size: About 7-9 inches long with a wingspan of 16-18 inches.
Habitat:
- Prefer open woodlands, orchards, and parks.
- Often seen clinging to tree trunks.
Interesting Facts:
- They catch insects in midair and store food in tree crevices.
- Their call is a loud “queer” sound.
- Red-headed Woodpeckers are known for their striking, tri-colored appearance.
5. Summer Tanager
Appearance:
- Male: Bright red all over.
- Female: Yellow-green with some orange-red on the face and throat.
- Size: About 6.7 inches long with a wingspan of 11-11.5 inches.
Habitat:
- Found in open woodlands, especially those with pine-oak trees.
- Prefer areas near water.
Interesting Facts:
- Summer Tanagers specialize in eating bees and wasps.
- They are known for their sweet, melodious song.
- Migrate to Central and South America for the winter.
FAQs
What types of red birds can be found in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, you can find several types of red birds, including:
Northern Cardinal: Known for its vibrant red plumage, this bird is one of the most common red birds in Pennsylvania.
House Finch: Males of this species have red faces and upper breasts, making them easy to spot.
Scarlet Tanager: Males are bright red with black wings and tail during the breeding season.
Red-headed Woodpecker: This bird has a striking red head and neck with a contrasting black and white body.
Which blue birds are commonly seen in Pennsylvania?
Common blue birds in Pennsylvania include:
Eastern Bluebird: Recognizable by its bright blue back and rusty red chest, this bird is a favorite among bird watchers.
Blue Jay: With its vivid blue color and distinct crest, the Blue Jay is a familiar sight in Pennsylvania.
Tree Swallow: This bird has glossy blue-green upperparts and is often seen near water bodies.
What are some common birds found in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania is home to a diverse range of birds, including:
American Robin: Known for its red-orange breast, the American Robin is a common sight in gardens and parks.
Northern Cardinal: Both males and females are frequently seen, with males being bright red and females having a more subdued reddish-brown color.
Mourning Dove: Recognizable by its soft, mournful cooing and slender body.
Black-capped Chickadee: This small bird has a black cap and bib with white cheeks, making it easy to identify.
American Goldfinch: Males are bright yellow with black wings during the breeding season.
Which bird in Pennsylvania has a combination of red and black?
The Scarlet Tanager is a bird in Pennsylvania that has a striking combination of red and black. Males are bright red with black wings and tail during the breeding season, while females are olive-yellow.
What Pennsylvania bird has a red patch on the back of its head?
The Red-bellied Woodpecker is known for the red patch on the back of its head. Despite its name, the red belly is often less noticeable compared to the vivid red on its head and nape.
Conclusion
Pennsylvania’s red birds add a splash of color to the landscape and are a joy to observe.
Whether you’re a seasoned bird watcher or a curious beginner, keeping an eye out for these vibrant creatures can be a rewarding experience.
By learning about their habits and habitats, you can better appreciate the beauty and diversity of Pennsylvania’s bird population.
