- Carpodacus mexicanus
Identification
5-6" (13-15 cm). Bright red on crown, breast, and rump. Female has 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.