3 replies to this topic

[JoeShonah]

This bird visited our home near Buffalo, New York.  Please refer to the picture posted on August 14th with the name "New York ..." .  This bird is the size of a large sparrow.  It is brown with a rust colored breast.  It has cone shaped bill and a white throat.  It has a distinctive white strip above the eye to the back of the head.  Appears to have two white strips on the wings. 

[David Lukas]

It certainly helps that you've gotten such a clear photo of your bird! This is a classic image of a Rose-breasted Grosbeak. While an adult male is a dramatic mix of red, black, and white colors, both the females and juveniles are streaky brown with rusty underparts. These can be separated by fine details, but I don't have my field guide handy at the moment. I can look it up later and send you a bit more information. Meanwhile, I hope this helps with your question!

David Lukas and Simone Whitecloud

[JoeShonah]

Thanks!  Our neighbor recently spotted a male rose-breasted grosbeak.  So our mystery is solved. As you said the females and juveniles are very different from the males.  Thanks again! 

[David Lukas]

I've had a chance to followup on your bird and verify that it has the field marks of a young male fresh from the nest this year. Hope this furthers your sense of your bird!

David and Simone