Cardinals and allies (Cardinalidae)

Pyrrhuloxia

Cardinalis sinuatus. Seeds and insects.

Cardinals and allies (Cardinalidae)PyrrhuloxiaCardinalis sinuatus
Scientific name
Cardinalis sinuatus
Length
8.3 in
Weight
1.1–1.3 oz
Nest
Cup in thorny shrubs
Entrance hole
Does not use nest boxes
Clutch
2–4 eggs
Incubation
14 days
Broods
1–2 per season

Identification

  • Grey cardinal with red face and breast
  • Stubby yellow parrot-like bill
  • Tall red-tipped crest

Voice

Clear whistles like a cardinal's.

Diet and feeding

Pyrrhuloxias by state and province

RegionStatusNesting
ArizonaYear-round residentMarch–August
New MexicoYear-round residentApril–August
TexasYear-round residentMarch–August

Frequently asked

What do pyrrhuloxias eat?

Seeds and insects. At feeders: sunflower, safflower.

How big is a Pyrrhuloxia?

8.3 in long and 1.1–1.3 oz.

Do pyrrhuloxias use birdhouses?

No. Cup in thorny shrubs.

Sources

  1. Pyrrhuloxia — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
  2. Pyrrhuloxia life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
  3. Pyrrhuloxia — Audubon Guide to North American Birds

Timing reflects typical patterns for the region as a whole; local dates vary with elevation and year. Check the linked eBird bar charts for your county.