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.