Pine Grosbeaks are amongst the largest of finches. They are
easily identified by their long tail, stubby body, and, slightly hooked bill.
The males are rather striking with red plumage which is a stark contrast to the
females who sport a dowdy olive gray colour.
Pine Grosbeaks like their yellow cousins, the Evening Grosbeak, are a rare sight indeed. Unlike Evening Grosbeaks, which will migrate
all the way down to Mexico, Pine Grosbeaks tend to stay North even during the
winter. There does seem to be a more southerly migration during particularly
harsh winters when food is scarce.
Fortunately for birders across Northern Ontario the Pine
Grosbeaks have made their way to our area. The flocks have been exceedingly
strong in the Sudbury area. Pine Grosbeaks like most birds favour Black Oil
Sunflower Seeds and simply cannot resist Hulled Sunflower Seeds (both of which are available in store!). These
beautiful birds are ground feeders. Simply tossing the feed on the snow would suffice,
though you may also go the route of a tray feeder that reduces the spread of
the seeds limiting the mess that the birds can sometimes leave behind. We carry
many styles of tray feeders in store, as well as “fly-through” feeders which
they will also frequent.
Pine Grosbeaks are a wonderful addition to any yard. These
birds are exceptionally tame and highly tolerant of human activity, making them
a favourite amongst birders. The Backyard Birder does not, however, encourage
direct interaction with the birds!
Make sure to stop by the store and pick up all you need to attract
and keep the Pine Grosbeaks coming to your yard!
Also hit us up on Facebook and post your pictures of Pine Grosbeaks and let us know if they are visiting your yard!
