From Opus

Carpodacus mexicanus

Photo by skiel
Photographed: Orange County, New York, USA.

Identification

5-6" (13-15 cm).
Male Bright red on crown, breast, and rump.
Female Plain, unstriped head and heavy streaking on light underside.
'Immature males Less highly coloured, often orangish or yellowish on head and breast.

Distribution

North America, Canada to southern Mexico

Taxonomy

Habitat

Deserts, orchards, coastal valleys and forests.

Behaviour

A tightly woven, compact nest is made and set in a bush, thicket, natural cavity, or on a building. 3-5 bluish, lightly streaked or spotted eggs are laid.

Diet includes insects and grass seeds.

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