To help you identify the most frequent birds with red feathers in California, we’ve compiled pictures and essential data from expert-backed resources. To guarantee the accuracy, all information was cross-checked with a professional Ornithologist.
Cassin’s Finch
(Carpodacus cassinii) is a type of red-colored finch that can be found in the western parts of North America. It’s most common in California, where it resides year-round. In terms of physical characteristics, Cassin’s Finch has grayish wings and tail with a reddish brown crown, rump, and flanks. The adult males are easily identifiable by their bright red head, breast, and rump.
Cassin’s Finch typically feeds on small seeds, fruits, insects, and other invertebrates. They prefer to forage in the tops of conifers or on low shrubs. During the breeding season, they can be found in open woodlands, coniferous forests, and scrubby habitats.
Cassin’s Finch is a medium-sized finch that measures around 13 cm in length with a wingspan of 19–22 cm. It typically weighs between 17–22 g.
The behavior of Cassin’s Finch is typical of most North American finches, displaying courtship behaviors such as singing and posturing. During the breeding season, they will form pairs and nest in trees or shrubs usually near the ground. The female lays a clutch of 4-5 eggs that are white with reddish-brown spots, which she incubates for 12–14 days before hatching. Both parents help in raising the young.
House Finch
(Haemorhous mexicanus) is a type of red bird commonly found in California. These birds have distinguishing features such as a brown back and wings, and the males have bright red or pinkish chests. They measure between 13-15 cm in length, with their wingspan ranging from 20-25 cm.
House Finches are seed-eating birds and their diet is composed of weed seeds, grains, fruits and other plant matter. They can usually be found foraging in flocks during the morning and evening hours.
The House Finch has a widespread distribution within California, occupying habitats such as coniferous forests, scrublands, parks and gardens. They have been known to build in trees and shrubs, as well as on buildings.
House Finches are social birds that prefer to stay in large flocks. They often vocalize while feeding or performing courtship rituals, like singing a complex musical song or chasing each other around the branches of a tree. House Finches also engage in dust bathing behavior, which helps keep their feathers clean and healthy.
They are also particularly active during the breeding season when males display courtship behaviors to attract a mate. They have been known to be very persistent with potential mates, even if they are rejected multiple times.
Vermilion Flycatcher
(Pyrocephalus rubinus) is a small passerine bird found in open habitats such as shrubland, savanna, and grassland throughout the western United States. They have bright red heads and backs with white bellies, rufous wings and tail feathers. It has a thin bill designed for catching insects on the fly.
In the wild, these birds feed on a variety of insects such as ants, bees and wasps. They also eat small amounts of fruit or nectar during migration. The average size of a Vermilion Flycatcher is between 4-5 inches in length with a wingspan of 8-9 inches.
The Vermilion Flycatcher is known to nest in shrubs and trees near water sources. They also use cacti as nesting sites, especially in southern Arizona and Mexico. The behavior of the Vermilion Flycatcher is mostly territorial. During mating season males will defend their territory by chasing away rivals. They are monogamous and often form pairs that stay together for a lifetime.
Red-Crowned Parrot
(Amazona viridigenalis), also known as Green-Cheeked Parrot, is a medium sized parrot native to California and other parts of Central America. Red-Crowned Parrots are easily distinguished by their vibrant red crowns and greenish cheeks. They typically measure between 18 to 20 inches from beak to tail and weigh just under 300 grams.
Red-Crowned Parrots are found in a variety of habitats, including tropical and subtropical lowlands and humid forests up to an elevation of 4,500 feet. In California, they can be found primarily in riparian woodlands near water sources such as creeks, rivers, and wetlands.
These parrots are omnivores, primarily eating fruit, nuts, and grains but also consuming insects and small animals. Red-Crowned Parrots typically forage in pairs or small flocks and will often feed together with other parrot species or even hummingbirds.
Red-Crowned Parrots are curious and highly social birds, often seen interacting with other species. They are also known for their loud vocalizations and have a wide range of calls, from low grating sounds to high-pitched squeals and whistles. In the wild they form large flocks, and in captivity they can be kept in groups or pairs as long as enough space is provided. They are also known to be very friendly and affectionate towards their owners, forming strong bonds with them.
Northern Cardinal
(Cardinalis cardinalis) is a colorful red bird that can be found in North America, including California. This species has distinctive characteristics such as its large and crested head, bright red feathers on its body and wings, and a black mask around its eyes. It has a short and thick bill with a sharp point at the end intended for cracking seeds.
This species of bird primarily feeds on fruits, grains, and nuts; however, it also eats insects, spiders, and small reptiles such as lizards. The Northern Cardinal can reach an average length of 8-9 inches with a wingspan up to 13 inches.
Northern Cardinals inhabit wooded areas in the western states, including California. They prefer edges of forests and thickets, open woodlands, parks, gardens, and suburban areas. Cardinals are also monogamous birds and will mate for life. They nest in tree cavities or shrubs near water sources. The female Cardinal will lay 1-6 eggs per clutch and will take turns incubating them with the male. During spring and summer, they become active during the day and can be heard singing in the early morning hours. They typically feed on the ground or low bushes near their nesting site. The Northern Cardinal is an important species of wildlife to observe and appreciate in California.
Anna’s Hummingbird
(Calypte anna) is a species of hummingbird found in California. It gets its name from the red feathers on its crest, giving it a distinct look among other birds. With its tiny size and long beak and tongue, Anna’s Hummingbirds are able to feed on nectar from flowers or small insects like spiders. They also love sugary foods like hummingbird nectar, and they can be seen hovering around feeders.
Anna’s Hummingbirds typically measure about 4 inches in length and weigh just over a third of an ounce. They have rusty-red feathers on the crown of their head, grayish-green feathers on their back and wings, and white feathers on their chest and belly.
Anna’s Hummingbirds are found in a variety of habitats, from deserts to urban areas. They spend much of their time near flowering trees, shrubs, and cacti looking for food, but they can also be seen at feeders or drinking from fountains. The birds also make their homes in cavities, where they create nests and lay eggs.
Anna’s Hummingbirds are very active birds, with a tendency to fly quickly and erratically. They can be seen chasing other hummingbirds away from food sources or defending their territories against intruders. They also engage in courtship displays during breeding season, fluttering their wings and spreading their tail feathers.
American Robin
(Turdus migratorius) is a medium-sized songbird native to the United States. It has distinctive rust-colored feathers on its head, back and throat, with an off-white belly and grayish wings. The American Robin stands around 11 inches tall and weighs up to 2.5 ounces with a wingspan of 16 inches.
The American Robin is a foraging bird, meaning that it searches for food on the ground, in shrubs and trees. It feeds mainly on insects, fruit and berries. During summer months, robins can be found all across North America consuming their favorite treats such as worms, beetles and caterpillars. In winter they congregate in areas where there is an abundance of food, such as gardens and parks.
The American Robin prefers to live in woodlands and open grassy areas and is a common sight in residential neighborhoods. Robins are highly social animals that form large family groups during the winter months, often gathering together on lawns or in trees at night to roost.
Robins are highly active during the day and can often be heard singing loud and clear songs in the morning and evening. They are also known to dive bomb intruders that come too close to their nest sites. Robins will sometimes use other birds’ nests as well, but they prefer to build their own structure out of sticks and mud.
In the wild, American Robins can live up to 8 years but in captivity, they have been known to live for much longer. They are considered a sign of good luck and prosperity in many cultures and their presence is often welcomed by people who appreciate their beauty and song.
Purple Finches
(Haemorhous purpureus) is a small, brightly-colored bird that can be found in the western United States (including California). It has distinctive pinkish-red plumage with white stripes on its wings and upperparts, as well as a brown head and back. This species tends to have a somewhat triangular shape when observed in flight.
The Purple Finch has a varied diet consisting of both insects and black oil sunflower seeds, especially grains such as those found in weedy fields and bird feeders. It is also fond of fruits, particularly those of the dogwood tree. They will often flock together in large groups to forage for food.
In terms of size, the Purple Finch has an average length of around five inches, with a wingspan of eight inches. This species usually lives in woodlands and open forests at altitudes ranging from sea level to up to 8,000 feet.
Behaviorally, the Purple Finch is quite active and curious; it will often approach humans and explore areas near homes or bird feeders. It tends to sing loudly, making it an easily recognizable species in the region. Additionally, this bird is known for its territoriality; it will defend its territory by chasing off other birds and animal intruders.
Summer Tanager males
(Piranga rubra) are plain red in color, while the females have a yellowish-green body. This species of bird mainly feeds on berries and insects, but it will also consume smaller fruits such as cherries, plums, and mulberries. The Summer Tanager can reach up to 7 inches in length with an average wingspan of 10 inches.
The Summer Tanagers are found mainly in open woodlands, riparian forests and gardens with trees in California. During the summer months they can often be seen perched on top of high branches within these areas. They typically use this vantage point to survey their surroundings for potential food sources.
The Summer Tanager is also known to be a very active species, often seen flitting from tree to tree as they search for food. Despite their overall shy behavior, Summer Tanagers can become quite assertive when defending their nesting sites. They are known to be rather territorial and will chase away any intruders or potential predators.
Pine Grosbeak
(Pinicola enucleator) is a medium-sized bird, native to North America and parts of Eurasia. This species has a distinctive red body with black wings, a white wing patch, and an orangey head. The Pine Grosbeak measures an average of 21-25 cm in length and weighs between 60-90 grams.
Pine Grosbeaks inhabit coniferous and mixed forests, such as those found in California, where they can be spotted perched atop locally available tree species. These birds feed primarily on fruits from various berry-producing plants and also eat seeds, buds, flowers, and insects. They are known to store food for later consumption.
In California, Pine Grosbeaks are primarily monogamous and form distinct pair bonds for extended periods of time. Their social behavior is characterized by close family ties, with parent birds helping their young to learn the skills needed for successful survival in the wild. When threatened or alarmed, these birds may congregate in large flocks and flock to the highest point in their locality.
Pine Grosbeaks are long-distance migrants, traveling south for the winter months and returning to California in the springtime. They are relatively easy to spot during migration seasons owing to their characteristic red plumage, which stands out against the drab colors of other migrating birds. When in their homeland, they are most active during the cooler months of the year.
Allen’s Hummingbird
(Selasphorus sasin) is a species of hummingbird found in the coastal mountain ranges in California. It has distinctive red feathers on its throat and head, with bronze-green wings and back. Its average size is 7–8 cm (2.75–3.25 inches) long and it weighs between 2.4 to 3.1 g (0.08 to 0.11 oz).
Allen’s Hummingbirds typically feed on flower nectar and small insects, such as spiders, flies and beetles. They are also known to feed on tree sap, a behavior which distinguishes them from other hummingbird species. Additionally, they consume water by licking the dew off leaves or drinking from small puddles.
Allen’s Hummingbirds can be found in a variety of habitats, including coastal scrublands and chaparral, but they are particularly partial to areas with high rainfall and dense vegetation. They are typically active during the day when temperatures are warmest. During breeding season, male hummingbirds are known to display spectacular aerial acrobatics as they compete for mates.
These charismatic birds are a beloved sight throughout California and beyond, particularly during the summer months when they can be spotted darting between flowers or flitting through gardens in search of nectar.
California Scrub-Jay
(Aphelocoma californica) is a species of bird native to California. It has distinct identifying characteristics, such as its blue-grey body and conspicuous crests on the head. Its diet primarily consists of small invertebrates, seeds, and nuts. The size of a California Scrub-Jay ranges from 8 to 11 inches in length and can weigh up to 1.9 ounces. It prefers a habitat of shrub-lands, oak woodland, arid chaparral, and river edges where it builds its nest in the lower branches of trees or shrubs.
The species is known to be territorial, exhibiting aggressive behavior towards other birds that enter their domain as well as caching food for future use. It also has a complex vocal range with at least 25 distinct calls and songs that it uses in various situations. The California Scrub-Jay is a unique bird species and an important part of the state’s natural heritage.
Red-breasted Sapsucker
(Sphyrapicus ruber) is a medium-sized member of the woodpecker family, found mostly in California. It has black and white wings with bright red chest and head. It is usually around 7 inches long, with a wingspan of 11 inches.
These birds feed on tree sap and insects like caterpillars, beetles, and ants. They find their food by drilling small holes in the bark of trees.
Red-breasted Sapsuckers usually live in coniferous forests, but they can also be found in deciduous woods and even urban areas like parks. In winter they migrate to warmer climates like Mexico and Central America.
Red-breasted Sapsuckers are known for their vocalizations, which include a variety of monotonous calls as well as a more complex mating and territorial call. They are also very active birds; they will often drum against trees and fly in circles while rapidly flapping their wings. This behavior is thought to help them find food, attract mates, and ward off competitors.
Scarlet Tanager
(Piranga olivacea) is a species of red bird commonly found in the forests of western North America. It is sexually dimorphic, with males possessing bright red plumage and black wings, while females are typically yellowish-olive green with two rows of dark spots down the back. The Scarlet Tanager’s diet consists mainly of fruits, insects, and spiders. An adult Scarlet Tanager typically measures around 7 inches in length and has a wingspan of 10-11 inches.
Scarlet Tanagers are usually found in deciduous or mixed forests with dense canopies and access to plenty of open areas for foraging, especially during the breeding season. They are most common in oak-hickory forests, riparian woodlands, and pine-oak woods. When not breeding, they may be found in lowland tropical forests or montane coniferous forests.
Scarlet Tanagers are generally solitary birds that remain fairly quiet except during courtship and territorial displays. During mating season (May – July), males will display and sing in order to attract mates, while they may also defend their territories by chasing off other birds. During the winter months, they migrate southward and move around in small flocks for protection from predators.
They typically do not associate with other species, although they may roost in mixed-species flocks and join in mixed-species foraging flocks during migration. At night, they roost in trees, often close together to conserve heat. During the day, they can be seen perched in the canopy or hopping from branch to branch searching for food. They are known to make short flights from time to time, but rarely fly far distances.
Black-headed Grosbeak
(Pheucticus melanocephalus) is a large passerine bird native to North America. It has a black head, neck and upper chest, with pale gray wings and tail. The male has a bright yellow belly whereas the female has an olive-yellow hue. These birds are typically 18–21 cm (7–8 in) long and have a wingspan of 25–32 cm (10–13 in).
The Black-headed Grosbeak is mainly found in open woodlands, orchards, and residential areas with trees. It feeds on a variety of food including insects, fruits, and seeds. These birds are ground feeders, feeding mostly near the ground or from low perches.
In California, Black-headed Grosbeaks are commonly found near rivers and streams with trees such as cottonwood, willow, alder, and sycamore. They forage on the ground for insects and seeds and usually feed in flocks during spring migration. During the breeding season they prefer areas with dense shrubs and tall trees for nesting.
The species is usually quite vocal in the morning and evening, producing a variety of clear whistles to communicate with its mate. Its call sounds like “tink-a-ree” or “chewink” which can help you identify it when birdwatching.
In addition, Black-headed Grosbeaks also perform a courtship display. The male will sing to attract a female and then spread its wings while perched on a tall branch. He will make several short flights between branches, singing all the while. It’s an amazing sight to see!
Western Bluebird
(Sialia Mexicana) is a type of red bird found in California. It has bright blue upperparts, rusty orange-brown breast, and a white belly. The male typically has a darker head than the female. Western Bluebirds feed mainly on insects and fruits, such as elderberries and hackberries. These birds are about 6.5 inches in length and typically inhabit open woodlands, fields, orchards, and residential areas.
They build their nests in natural cavities or artificial boxes. They are social birds and form flocks during migration and winter months. These birds also defend their territory aggressively by chasing away other red bird species such as the Mountain Bluebird and Townsend’s Solitaire. Western Bluebirds are known to be excellent at hunting flying insects and they use their powerful wings to swoop down on prey. In addition, these birds will take advantage of nearby feeders, especially during the winter months when food is scarce.
Red Crossbill
(Loxia curvirostra) is a species of finch found in North America. The red crossbill has an average size range of 4-5 inches long and typically weigh between 13-17 grams. They have stout cone shaped bills which are used to pry open conifer cones for feeding, and their mild coloration includes bright orange shoulder patches and a red rump.
Red Crossbills can be found in coniferous forests all along the western coast of North America, from Alaska down to Southern California. They feed mainly on seeds, specifically those found in pinecones or other conifer cones. Throughout their range they also consume insects, berries, buds and other plant material.
The Red Crossbill is a unique species due to its unusual call and behavior. It can often be seen in large flocks, spreading out into open areas as they search for food among the conifer trees. During breeding season, Red Crossbills may hybridize with other finch species including Pine Siskins and Common Redpolls. They construct their nests out of sticks and build them in trees or shrubs.
Common Yellowthroat
(Geothlypis trichas) is a small songbird that can be found in California. It has a distinctive black mask and yellow throat, which gives it its name. Its body is olive-brown with white or pale yellow underside. These birds measure about four to five inches in length.
Common Yellowthroats prefer open habitats such as marshes, thickets, and woodland edges. They feed on insects, seeds, berries and other small invertebrates.
Common Yellowthroats are usually seen alone or in pairs. During the breeding season they become very territorial and will aggressively defend their territories from intruders. The males sing a distinctive song to attract females and to establish their territories.
Common Yellowthroats are migratory birds that spend the winter in Mexico and Central America before returning north for the breeding season. In California, they can be found mostly in the east-central region of the state. They begin nesting as early as late April and continue until September. They nest on or near the ground, usually in dense vegetation.
Common Yellowthroats are energetic and active birds, often flicking their wings while they hop along the ground searching for food. During the breeding season they may be seen perching on top of shrubs or bushes singing their distinctive song. They are fairly common throughout California but can be difficult to spot among the dense vegetation.
Hepatic Tanager
(Piranga flava) is a species of songbird native to California. This small bird has bright red plumage, black wings with white tips, an orange bill and yellow legs. They typically measure about 16 cm in length and weigh around 30 g.
Hepatic Tanagers inhabit oak woodlands, chaparral and other wooded areas, especially in the coastal foothills of western California. They feed mainly on insects and berries, foraging mostly in trees or shrubs.
Hepatic Tanagers are social birds often seen in small flocks, but they will also form loose mixed-species flocks with other tanager species while foraging. During the breeding season, they are monogamous and usually nest in a tree or shrub.
The female builds the nest and incubates the eggs for about 12-14 days before hatching. The male helps provide food for the nestlings until they fledge at around 14-18 days old.
In California, Hepatic Tanagers can be found year-round. They are common in the summer months from May to September, but may be more difficult to spot during the winter when they move further south. They are occasionally seen as far south as Baja California and have also been reported in some parts of Arizona. As their habitat is under threat from development and human activities, it is important to keep an eye on their population numbers and protect suitable habitat for these beautiful birds.
Lesser Goldfinch
(Spinus psaltria) is a small bird found in California. It has a yellow head, wings, and tail with black stripes on the face and wings. Its underparts are white or pale gray. Males have an orange patch near the tail. The diet of Lesser Goldfinches consists of flower buds, grains, insects, weed seeds, and other small items. They are around four inches in size and can be found in open areas such as meadows, parks, deserts, gardens and woodlands.
These birds usually travel in small flocks or pairs and forage for food on the ground. They are highly social animals that will often remain together during migration periods. Lesser Goldfinches are year-round residents in California and are most often seen during the summer months. In winter, they will join larger flocks of goldfinches to roost together at night and feed during the day.
Lesser Goldfinches are a common sight in California and make an enjoyable addition to any bird watching excursion. With their cheerful chirping and bright colors, they are sure to bring life and color to any outdoor space.
American Goldfinch
(Carduelis tristis) is a popular species of red bird native to the regions of California. It has a distinct yellow body with black wings and tail, and a white rump patch. Male birds have a more vibrant plumage, while females are more muted in color.
American Goldfinches typically feed on small insects such as aphids and caterpillars, along with a variety of fruits and seeds. They can be found in open woodlands and meadows, often near areas of brush or thicket.
The American Goldfinch is a small bird; they typically measure between 4-5 inches long with a wingspan that ranges from 6-8 inches.
American Goldfinches are known for their social behavior, often gathering in flocks to feed and roost. They have a high-pitched call that is used for communication. During breeding season, males can be heard singing their loud and melodic songs from perches atop trees or bushes. American Goldfinches are also popular among birdwatchers, as they are very active and can be seen flitting between trees in search of food. Their bright colors make them easy to spot in the wild.
California Quail
Callipepla californica, is a small, round bird that belongs to the grouse family. It has distinctive characteristics such as its black plume at the back of its head and throat, grey feathers on its sides and chest, white stripe near the bill and brown feathers over its wings. The California quail can reach up to 10 inches in length and weigh up to 6.2 ounces.
The California quail’s diet consists of seeds, fruits, berries, insects, and other small animals. They are found in habitats that are near shrubbery, brushy grasslands, or the edges of wooded areas. These birds can also be seen in gardens and agricultural areas.
California quail have unique behavior compared to other birds. They are able to run quickly in short bursts and can fly only for short distances. They usually travel in groups called “coveys” that contain up to thirty individuals. During the mating season they will form pairs, but they will still remain in the coveys. California quails are also able to communicate by making a variety of calls, including “chick-a-dee” and “chi-ca-go” sounds.
Red-naped Sapsucker
(Sphyrapicus nuchalis) is a medium-sized woodpecker found in North America and Central America. It has a mostly black back and white wing bars, red on the head and neck, a yellow breasts and belly, and a brown tail. They are usually seen alone or in pairs during migration season.
Red-naped sapsuckers inhabit open coniferous forests and riparian woods, favoring Douglas fir, ponderosa pine, and willow trees. They feed primarily on sap from the bark of these trees as well as insects including beetles, ants, bee larvae and aphids. They also eat fruit such as raspberries.
Adult red-naped sapsuckers typically measure between 19 and 23 cm in length and weigh around 40 g. They are easily identified by their unique drumming sound which they make while searching for food sources.
Their behavior is typical of other woodpeckers, such as climbing up and down trees in search of food. They also nest in excavated cavities in dead trees, making them keystone species as they provide nesting sites for other birds, small mammals and insects. During mating season, males display to potential mates by raising their head feathers and drumming a rapid rhythm on tree trunks.
Red-naped sapsuckers are often seen migrating in small flocks during the spring and fall. They can be found from southern Alaska to northern Costa Rica, but are most commonly seen in western North America, including California.
Costa’s Hummingbird
(Calypte costae) is a species of hummingbird found in California. It has olive-green upperparts, rufous flanks and belly, and a white breast with a violet patch. It has a slender, slightly curved black bill and small greenish legs and feet. Costa’s Hummingbirds feed on nectar from flowers and small insects. They are typically 4 to 4.5 inches (10-11 cm) long and weigh around 3 grams.
Costa’s Hummingbirds inhabit deserts, open woodlands, chaparral, scrubland, backyards and other man-made habitats in southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. The birds nest among vegetation in desert areas and lowland scrub habitats. During the breeding season, males can be quite territorial, chasing away other hummingbirds from their preferred feeding sites. Males also perform an elaborate courtship display, flying high above potential mates before diving down rapidly with a loud chirp before returning to the nest area.
Costa’s Hummingbirds are migratory and move to lower elevations in the fall. During the winter, they may form large flocks and travel long distances between feeding sites. The birds rarely venture more than a few hundred miles from their breeding grounds. By early spring, they return to their exact same nesting site as the year before.
Are there any red birds in California?
Yes, there are red birds in California. One common species is the Western Tanager, which has a distinctive red head and bright yellow body. Other species of red birds in the state include the Northern Cardinal, Painted Redstart, Allen’s Hummingbird, and Evening Grosbeak. These birds can often be found in parks, gardens, and woodlands.
Some areas of California also have large populations of Red-tailed Hawks, which are characterized by their bright red tails. There is also the vermillion flycatcher, a small bird with a bright red head and breast that can be found in the western United States from California to Texas.
What is a red bird that is not a cardinal?
One example of a red bird that is not a cardinal is the Scarlet Tanager (Piranga olivacea). The Scarlet Tanager is a small songbird native to North America. It has bright red plumage and black wings and tail, making it easily recognizable in its range. Other common colors for this species include yellow, orange, and black. It feeds mainly on insects, fruits, and berries found in the canopy of deciduous forests.
In addition to its attractive coloring, this species also produces a melodic song that can be heard through the trees. Scarlet Tanagers are migratory birds that breed in North America before spending their winters in Central and South America. While they are not as common as cardinals, they can be seen in the eastern United States and southern Canada during the summer months.
What bird is solid red?
One bird that is solid red is the Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis). This species is found throughout much of North America and are characterized by their bright red plumage and distinctive black face mask. They can often be seen in gardens, woods, and other semi-open habitats. The males have a brilliant red body with a black face mask, while the females are a paler brown. Northern cardinals are also notable for their song, which is a combination of tweets and whistles. They are social birds and will often form pairs or small flocks throughout the year.
