Pyrrhuloxia
NamePyrrhuloxia
Common NamePyrrhuloxia
Scientific NameCardinalis sinuatus
FamilyCardinalidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)22
Weight (g)34
Plumage DetailsMales have a gray body with a bright red crest, a red mask around the eyes, and red on the breast, wings, and tail. The bill is distinctively stout and yellow-orange. Females are similar but duller, with less extensive red, primarily on the crest, wings, and tail, and a grayer face.
Vocalization / CallThe song is a series of clear, whistled notes, often described as 'what-cheer, what-cheer, what-cheer' or 'quick-quick-quick'. Calls include a sharp 'chip' or 'tseet'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsdesert
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the southwestern United States (southern Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas) and throughout much of Mexico.
Identifying Featuresprominent pointed crest, stout yellow-orange bill, gray body with red accents (males), red mask (males)
Description
The Pyrrhuloxia is a striking desert songbird known for its prominent pointed crest and stout, parrot-like yellow bill. Males display a gray body with vibrant red accents on the face, crest, breast, wings, and tail, while females are duller. They are typically found foraging for seeds and insects in arid scrublands.
