Pheucticus ludovicianus

Pheucticus ludovicianus is a medium-sized songbird native to North America, particularly widespread in the eastern and central United States during the breeding season, with its range extending into southern Canada. It migrates annually to spend winters in Central America, northern South America, and the Caribbean. The species prefers deciduous forests, woodland edges, orchards, and suburban areas with tall trees, where it nests from mid-May to mid-July. Adults measure approximately 7 to 8.5 inches in length with a wingspan of about 11 to 13 inches.

The species displays marked sexual dimorphism.

Males are black and white with a bright rose-red patch on the breast and under the wings, while females have warm brown tones with streaked underparts and yellowish or buff-colored highlights. Both sexes have large, conical pale bills adapted for seed consumption, but their diet includes insects, fruits, and snails. Nest building is done by the female and involves twigs, grasses, and animal hair. Clutches typically contain 3 to 5 eggs. The species exhibits strong migratory behavior and relies on celestial navigation and magnetic cues to traverse long distances.

Individuals are often heard before being seen due to their rich, whistled song delivered from high perches, and they may sometimes respond to recorded calls.
Pheucticus ludovicianus is considered plentiful, with an estimated population of over 4 million individuals. It adapts moderately well to human-modified landscapes and is occasionally seen at bird feeders, especially during migration. The species is protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in the United States and similar agreements across its range. Photographed in northern Colombia.