Evening Grosbeak Coccothraustes vespertinus

All The Birds Of North America: Evening Grosbeak Coccothraustes vespertinus

This chunky grosbeak was originally a bird of the West, but in recent years has expanded its range eastward. It nests in coniferous forests, where with the help of its huge conical bill it pries up the bracts of pine cones to get to the seeds within. At other times of year it frequents deciduous forests and is a common visitor to bird feeders, where it feasts on sunflower seeds.

Identification Stocky, with large, greenish-yellow, conical bill. Male has brown head with bold yellow forehead; back and belly bright yellow; wings black with large white pat

Voice Song a wandering series of musical whistles; call note a loud, ringing cleep.

Range Breeds from S. British Columbia and Alberta south through western mountains to N. California, Nevada, and S. Arizona; also eastward in the North to Minnesota and New England. Some birds move south in winter.