The rose-breasted grosbeak, colloquially called "cut-throat" due to its coloration, is a large, seed-eating grosbeak in the cardinal family (Cardinalidae). It is primarily a foliage gleaner. Males have black heads, wings, backs, and tails, and a bright rose colored patch on their white breast. Males and females exhibit marked sexual dimorphism.
Region
Eastern North America to northern South America
Typical Environment
Breeds across eastern and central North America in deciduous and mixed forests, particularly along woodland edges, second growth, and riparian corridors. During migration it uses a wide range of wooded habitats, shelterbelts, and parks, and frequently passes through the Gulf Coast. In the nonbreeding season it occupies tropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, shade coffee, and second-growth thickets from southern Mexico through the Andes and northern South America.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A long-distance migrant, the rose-breasted grosbeak breeds in North America and winters in Central and northern South America. Males are striking with a bold rose-red breast patch, while females are heavily streaked and sparrow-like, showing strong sexual dimorphism. Its huge, pale, conical bill can crack very hard seeds, yet it also takes many insects during the breeding season.
Immature male, Honduras
Immature male
Two males at feeder
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with strong, direct flight
Social Behavior
Pairs form on or shortly before the breeding grounds and are generally monogamous. Both sexes incubate and share feeding of nestlings; nests are open cups placed in shrubs or small trees. Outside the breeding season they may join mixed-species flocks in fruiting trees.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
The male delivers a rich, melodious warble reminiscent of an American Robin but sweeter and more fluid, with clear, whistled phrases. Calls include a sharp metallic 'eek' or 'chink' often given in flight or when alarmed.
