Types of Wild Red Birds

Cadinals

• One of the most popular birds in the United Stated is the cardinal. The female is brown with red only on the crest, wings and tail. It is the brilliant red male that is showy. They are a popular pair at the bird feeders, especially if sunflower seeds are being served. Cardinals nest in thickets, along the edges of woodlands and in orchards. They are a common bird throughout the eastern United States, Their territory is gradually expanding into the west and into Mexico. Cardinals are nonmigratory and sing throughout the year.

Vermilion Flycatcher

• The Vermilion Flycatcher is a diminutive bird at only 6 inches long. The head and body of the male are a brilliant scarlet, while the back is a dark brown. The female looks similar but has white streaks mixed with the red. Their habitat is in shrubs near streams although they often nest near houses. They are a friendly, fairly tame little bird and are common in southern Texas.

Scarlet Tanager

• The male scarlet tanager is an impressive sight with its brilliant red head and body and its contrasting black tail and wings. The female is a dull yellow with patches of red on the chest and back. The preferred trees for nesting is either a mature pine or oak tree. Their range is in the eastern central United States where it is common. The bird migrates to Bolivia for the winter.

Summer Tanager

• Perhaps the most brilliant red bird of all is the male summer tanager. The entire bird is a brilliant scarlet with black only on the tips of its wings. The female is a less showy yellow and brown bird. This species is the size of a robin but despite its substantial size and conspicuous color, it is a difficult bird to spot. It nests in dense woodlands and is generally discovered by following its persistent call. Its range is from the southeastern U.S. extending into California.