Bird Description

Uncommon and exclusive to evergreen forest with pine cones; has crossed bill for prying out seeds. Moves to other areas when food is scarce. Able to breed throughout the year if food supplies are good. Often feeds quietly in small flocks, hanging from any angle parrot-like. Easiest to see flying overhead giving HOFI-like chip notes. In winter, will sometimes come down to salted roads. In N Am, there are 10 'types' (6 in E), all probably full species, averaging different bill sizes and shapes. Most calls are separable using sonograms. Types will often mix and field ID is still evolving. ID: Crossed bill is diagnostic except for confusable WWCR. Chunky with oversized head and short forked tail. All have dark wings and tail. Ear coverts subtly dark. Some show weak wing bars. Ad ?: uniform dark red on underparts, head, and back. Undertail coverts white with dark centers. Ad ?: mostly olive green but variable and can show yellow, orange, or red. 1st-yr ?: patchy green and red. Juv: heavily streaked underparts.