What are the red birds in Minnesota in summer?

Answered by Tom Adger

In Minnesota during the summer, there are a few different species of red birds that you may come across. One of the most notable red birds is the Summer Tanager. This bird is the only completely red bird in North America and is sure to catch your eye with its vibrant strawberry-colored plumage. The male Summer Tanager stands out against the green leaves of the forest canopy, making it a stunning sight to behold.

The female Summer Tanager, on the other hand, is a bit harder to spot. She has a mustard-yellow coloration, which blends in more with the surrounding foliage. However, both the male and female Summer Tanagers have a very distinctive chuckling call note, which can help you locate them even if they are not immediately visible.

While the Summer Tanager is a beautiful red bird that you may encounter in Minnesota during the summer, there are a few other red birds that you might come across as well. One such bird is the Northern Cardinal. Although the male Northern Cardinal is mostly known for its vibrant red feathers, it also has a black face mask and a crest on its head, which adds to its striking appearance. The female Northern Cardinal, on the other hand, has a more subdued coloration, with a reddish-brown body and hints of red on its wings and tail.

Another red bird that you may see in Minnesota during the summer is the Scarlet Tanager. The male Scarlet Tanager is a beautiful deep red color, similar to that of the Summer Tanager, but with black wings and tail. The female Scarlet Tanager, however, has a more olive-yellow coloration, making her less noticeable than her male counterpart. Like the Summer Tanager, both male and female Scarlet Tanagers have a distinctive call, characterized by a series of short phrases.

In addition to these red birds, there are a few other species that may have red plumage, although they may not be as predominantly red as the ones mentioned above. For example, the Red-headed Woodpecker has a bright red head, while the rest of its body is mostly black and white. The Red-bellied Woodpecker also has a red head, but its belly is more of a pale yellow color.

While these are just a few examples of red birds that you may see in Minnesota during the summer, it is important to note that bird sightings can vary depending on the specific location and time of year. It is always exciting to discover these colorful avian residents in your own backyard or while exploring nature.

Please note that my response is based on general knowledge and may not account for specific variations or rare occurrences in bird populations in Minnesota.