Black-headed Grosbeak Identification

The Four Keys to ID

• Size & Shape

  Black-headed Grosbeaks are hefty songbirds with very large bills that are conical and thick at the base. They have large heads and short, thick necks. A short tail imparts a compact, chunky look.

  Relative Size

  Larger and bulkier than a House Finch; more compact and slimmer than an American Robin.

  robin-sized

  Measurements

  • Both Sexes
  • • Length: 7.1-7.5 in (18-19 cm)
    • Weight: 1.2-1.7 oz (35-49 g)
    • Wingspan: 12.6 in (32 cm)

  © Eric Ellingson / Macaulay Library

• Color Pattern

  Breeding males are rich orange-cinnamon with a black head and black-and-white wings. Females and immature males are brown above with warm orange or buff on the breast, and some have streaks on the sides of the breast. All have grayish bills. In flight, they flash bright yellow under the wings.

• Behavior

  Often hidden as they hop about in dense foliage gleaning insects and seeds, Black-headed Grosbeaks feed readily on sunflower seeds at feeders. Males sing in a rich, whistled lilt from treetops in spring and summer. The short, squeaky chip note is distinctive and can be a good way to find these birds.
• Habitat

  Look for Black-headed Grosbeaks in mixed woodlands and edges from mountain forests to thickets along desert streams to backyards and gardens. Ideal habitat includes some large trees and a diverse understory.