Wednesday Wings - Rose-breasted Grosbeak

It's obvious how this bird got its common name, Rose-breasted Grosbeak. At our house we call him Mr. Rosy.

Though they're a member of the Cardinal family, they don't winter over here in SW Michigan with their Cardinal cousins. It's always a pleasure to see them return around the first of May.

Based on the maximun number of males counted at one time, this year we have at least three Rosy couples coming to the feeder and hopefully nesting nearby.


The Rose-breasted Grosbeaks are about the same size as the Cardinals - a little smaller than a Robin. They have powerful seed eating beaks and love the black oiler sunflowers seeds we serve.

Unlike the Cardinals, they are willing and able to eat from a tube feeder. But, they also enjoy feasting on the flat surfaces.


Mrs. Rosy has a totally different look, rather like a sparrow on steroids.


I caught Mrs. Rosy glaring at her mate as he gobbled up sunflower seeds.

Is she wishing he had better manners?

Give it up, dear. You can't change them.