Male
Female
Description
Size: 7.25”
Plumage/Description: Breeding males are unmistakable with a bright reddish-orange head, yellow breast, belly and rump, and black back and wings. Females are similar, but muted in color. Much less color on the face, more of a pale yellow over all, with dark wings and back.
Habitat: Oak/Chaparral, Pinyon/Juniper, Ponderosa/ Coniferous, Riparian Residential, Residential
Time of year: Spring, Summer
Relative Abundance: Common
Behavior: Western Tanagers are common in the spring and fall during migration and will move through the area visiting almost every habitat type. Those that stay and breed in the area prefer a ponderosa pine/coniferous habitat, and are found at higher elevations in the summer time. Does not occur regularly in residential backyards but they will visit fruit and jelly feeders.
Diet: Insects, Fruit, Suet, Jelly
Similar species: Hepatic Tanager
Best Sites: During migration Watson Woods is a good location to see them. During breeding season you will need to get up to the higher elevations, at least 6,000 feet. The Bradshaw Mountains and Mingus Mountain are good locations.
