The crimson-collared grosbeak is a medium-size seed- and leaf-eating bird in the same family as the northern cardinal, Cardinalidae.
Region
Northeastern Mexico (Gulf slope of the Sierra Madre Oriental)
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid and semi-humid evergreen and semi-deciduous forests, second-growth thickets, forest edges, and shaded ravines. Often keeps to dense understory and midstory tangles, where it forages methodically among foliage. It tolerates disturbed habitats and can be found in edge scrub and regenerating woodland. Rare vagrants have been recorded in the Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas.
Altitude Range
200–2000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This chunky cardinalid is notable for the male’s striking black body with a vivid crimson collar and mantle, while females are mostly olive, making the pair highly dimorphic. It is a shy skulker of dense understory in northeastern Mexico and only rarely wanders into southern Texas. Despite the name “grosbeak,” it not only cracks seeds but also nips young leaves and buds.
Crimson-collared grosbeak from Biologia Centrali-Americana
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs, sometimes accompanying mixed-species flocks in dense vegetation. Pairs maintain small territories during the breeding season and build a concealed cup nest in shrubs or low trees. Likely socially monogamous, with both parents involved in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of mellow, whistled phrases and simple warbles delivered from within cover. Calls include sharp metallic chips and soft tink notes.
