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Western Tanager
It might only fly in the West, but the western tanager is still a favorite among bird-watchers all over the United States. Learn how to attract the western tanager to your yard, and listen to its song.
Photo: Dave Ryan
Scientific Name:
Piranga ludoviciana
.
Family:
Tanager.
Length:
7-1/4 inches.
Wingspan:
11-1/2 inches.
Distinctive Markings:
Male has bright-yellow body, black wings with prominent white bars. Red head in spring and summer. Female is yellow with gray back.
Nest:
Three to five bluish-green eggs with irregular brown spots. Builds loose nest of twigs high in the trees.
Song:
Similar to a robin, "Queer-it, queer. Queer-it, queer."
Habitat:
Mature forests.
Diet:
Insects and fruit.
Backyard Favorites:
Dried fruit, orange halves and sugar water.
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