Evening Grosbeak

Coccothraustes vespertinus

Evening Grosbeaks are primarily birds of northern and high elevation forests of Canada and the western U.S.  However, they occasionally (and unpredictably) move well to the south and east of their normal range during the winter months.  Prior to 1900, they were only found in the western half of North America.  With the mass plantings of box elder and other favorite trees and the prevalence of bird feeders, they now can be found in the Great Lakes region and throughout the northeastern United States.

Habitat: Breeds in conifer and mixed forests.  During migration and in winter, they can also be found in deciduous forests and semi-open country.

Diet: Feeds mostly on seeds, especially seeds of certain deciduous trees.  They will also feed on fruits, berries, tree buds, and insects.

Behavior: Evening Grosbeaks are usually found foraging in flocks, except during the breeding season.  They will forage at all levels of vegetation, from high in the tree stops to the ground. 

Nesting: June and July

Breeding Map: Breeding Bird Survey map

Song: A loud piercing peeer.  Click to listen to the Evening Grosbeak song

Migration: Summers in much of Canada, and at higher elevations of the western United States.  Some remain in these locations throughout the year, but others irregularly move well to the south during some winters.

Similar Species: American Goldfinch

Feeders: Will attend feeders for sunflower seeds and other items.

Status: Stable throughout most of its normal range.  They have expanded their breeding range eastward over the last century.

Further Information: 1) USGS Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter, Evening Grosbeak

2) Cornell University's "All About Birds - Evening Grosbeak"

3) eNature.com: Evening Grosbeak

Photo Information: June 17th, 2008 - Near Trout Lake in Washington state - Terry Sohl

Additional Photos: Click on the image chips or text links below for additional, higher-resolution Evening Grosbeak photos.