Crimson-collared grosbeak facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Crimson-collared grosbeak |
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| Conservation status | |
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| Genus: |
Periporphyrus
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| Species: |
celaeno
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The crimson-collared grosbeak (Periporphyrus celaeno) is a medium-sized bird that loves to eat seeds and leaves. It belongs to the same bird family as the famous northern cardinal, called Cardinalidae.
This colorful bird mostly lives in north-eastern Mexico. You can find it from central Nuevo León and central Tamaulipas down to northern Veracruz. Sometimes, especially in winter, it might visit the Rio Grande Valley in southern Texas.
Contents
Discover the Crimson-Collared Grosbeak
What Does a Crimson-Collared Grosbeak Look Like?
These birds are about 20 to 23.5 centimeters (8 to 9 inches) long. They weigh around 60 grams, which is about the same as a small apple.
Male crimson-collared grosbeaks are mostly black. They have a special dull red or pinkish-red "collar" around their neck, shoulders, and belly. Their belly also has some black spots.
Female birds have a black head and chest, just like the males. But their upper parts are greenish, and their underparts are yellowish. Young birds look a bit like females but have less black.
All these birds have a strong, black, and stubby beak. The top part of their beak sticks out almost straight from their forehead. This strong beak helps them crack open tough seeds!
What Sounds Do They Make?
The crimson-collared grosbeak has a pretty song that sounds like a warble. It often ends with an upward slurred sound.
Their calls are loud whistles. They usually start with an "s" sound. Some calls slur downward, while others go up first and then down.
Where Do They Live and How Do They Behave?
You can find the crimson-collared grosbeak in forests that are humid or semi-dry. They live in both new and old forest areas, from low to high places. Sometimes, they even hide on the ground.
These birds can be seen alone, in pairs, or sometimes in groups with other types of birds. This is called a mixed-species feeding flock.
How Do They Build Their Nests?
The nest of a crimson-collared grosbeak is like a big cup. It's made from grass and small twigs. They usually build their nests in a bush.
The female bird lays two or three eggs. These eggs are a pale blue-grey color with brown spots.
Images for kids
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Crimson-collared grosbeak from Biologia Centrali-Americana
