In the realm of Wyoming, yellow birds are quite prevalent during the blossoming seasons of spring and summer, when the warblers make their grand entrance. However, in the wintry months, the variety of yellow birds diminishes significantly.
To aid in the identification of these yellow avian creatures that you have spotted in Wyoming, this comprehensive manual shall furnish you with vivid imagery, informative details, melodious recordings of their songs, as well as migration patterns.
The majority of yellow birds inhabiting Wyoming are typically warblers, orioles, or tanagers, and occasionally, there are female members of these species that exhibit distinct dissimilarities from their male counterparts.
With the abundance of information contained within this guide, the process of identifying yellow birds will be rendered notably simpler. The yellow birds featured herein are arranged in a sequence that reflects their frequency of sightings in Wyoming during the spring and summer months (May and June), based on meticulous observations recorded in ebird checklists.
Yellow birds residing in Wyoming all year-round include the Cedar Waxwing. As for the summer season, one can encounter the Western Meadowlark, Yellow-rumped Warbler, American Goldfinch, Yellow Warbler, Yellow-headed Blackbird, Western Tanager, Western Kingbird, Wilson’s Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Orange-crowned Warbler, Lesser Goldfinch, American Redstart, Orchard Oriole, Dickcissel, and Scott’s Oriole. On the other hand, during the winter, the Evening Grosbeak is the lone representative among the yellow bird community.
Delve deeper into the contents of this guide to discern those yellow birds that have captured your attention.
Seventeen Yellow Birds in Wyoming:
1. Western Meadowlark:
Western Meadowlarks grace the Wyoming landscape most frequently among yellow birds during the breeding season. Their presence is documented in 24% of summer checklists submitted by avid birdwatchers across the state.
With their resplendent yellow bellies and harmonious melodies, Western Meadowlarks have the power to brighten one’s day.
Belonging to the blackbird family, these birds are approximately the size of Robins, adorned with shades of brown and white on their upper body parts. A distinguishing feature is the V-shaped black band that stretches across their vibrant yellow chests, transitioning to gray hues in the wintertime.
Scientific name: Sturnella neglecta
Length: 6.3-10.2 inches (16-26 cm)
Weight: 3.1-4.1 ounces (89-115 g)
Wingspan: 16.1 inches (41 cm)
While the Northern breed of Western Meadowlarks migrates to southern states during the winter, those residing in the western and midwestern regions choose to remain throughout the year.
Typically, Western Meadowlarks can be found foraging alone or in small flocks on the ground within grasslands, meadows, and fields. They are not commonly sighted in wooded areas or densely shrubby vegetation.
The dietary preferences of Western Meadowlarks consist of insects during the summer and seeds and grain during the winter season.
For those curious about their enchanting melodies, Western Meadowlarks produce a delightful medley of tweets, warbles, and whistles.
To experience the mesmerizing whistles and warbles of this songbird, refer to the accompanying video.
When it comes to nesting, Western Meadowlarks construct their abodes in ground depressions located within grassy landscapes. These nests are fashioned using soft materials such as grass and are sometimes adorned with a roof constructed from plant stalks and grass.
To attract Western Meadowlarks to your own backyard, consider offering them delectable treats in the form of sunflower seeds and cracked corn.
Fun Fact: Western Meadowlarks have been selected as the state bird for six different states within the United States.
2. Yellow-rumped Warbler:
Yellow-rumped Warblers are frequently spotted in Wyoming during the breeding season, although their numbers surge during migration in May and September. They make appearances in 21% of summer checklists and up to 38% of checklists during migration.
These warblers boast gray feathers with intermittent bursts of yellow adorning their faces, flanks, and rumps, along with white accents on their wings.
Scientific name: Setophaga coronata
Length: 4.7-5.5 inches (12-14 cm)
Weight: 0.4-0.5 ounces (12-13 g)
Wingspan: 7.5-9.1 inches (19-23 cm)
Yellow-rumped Warblers predominantly breed in Canada, the Rockies, and the Appalachian mountains. While migrating, they can be observed in the Midwest before venturing to southern and southwestern regions of the United States, the Pacific Coast, Mexico, and Central America for the winter season.
Coniferous forests serve as ideal habitats for Yellow-rumped Warblers, especially during the breeding phase. In winter, they can be found in open areas that feature fruiting shrubs. During the summer months, their diet primarily consists of insects, including caterpillars, midges, beetles, bugs, and wasps. As the migration period arrives and winter takes hold, they shift their focus to consuming various types of fruit, such as bayberry and wax myrtle.
If you desire a musical encounter with the Yellow-rumped Warbler, listen to the song recording provided.
When it comes to nesting, Yellow-rumped Warbler females construct their abodes within conifer trees using twigs, pine needles, and grass. The nests are further lined with soft materials like grass, moss, and hair. The female lays up to six eggs, which require approximately two weeks to hatch. The young birds then remain in the nest for an additional two weeks before taking flight.
To entice Yellow-rumped Warblers to visit your backyard, consider offering them a delectable spread consisting of sunflower seeds, suet, raisins, and peanut butter.
Fun Fact: Yellow-rumped Warblers are known to form flocks numbering in the thousands during the winter season. Moreover, they display aggression towards any other species that encroach upon their territory.
3. American Goldfinch:
American Goldfinches spend the breeding season in Wyoming, with some individuals remaining in the eastern region of the state throughout the year. They are documented in 16% of summer checklists and 8% of winter checklists.
Renowned for their resplendent appearance, male American Goldfinches showcase a vibrant combination of bright yellow and black feathers during the springtime. Conversely, females possess a more subdued brown hue, while males adopt a similar appearance during the winter months.
Scientific name: Spinus tristis
Length: 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm)
Weight: 0.4-0.7 ounces (11-20 g)
Wingspan: 7.5-8.7 inches (19-22 cm)
American Goldfinches can be found across most of North America, and many populations remain resident throughout the year. However, those that breed in Canada and the Midwest embark on migrations to southern regions of the United States for the winter season.
Weedy fields and overgrown areas serve as ideal foraging grounds for American Goldfinches, where they seek out sunflower, thistle, and aster plants. They are also frequently sighted in suburban areas, parks, and backyards.
To gain a sense of their melodious tunes, indulge in the recorded song of the American Goldfinch.
For nesting, American Goldfinch females typically choose saplings or shrubs as the location for their abodes. The nests are constructed using grass, bark strips, and feathers, providing a cozy environment for the female to lay her clutch of four to six eggs. The incubation period spans ten to twelve days, during which the male assumes the responsibility of feeding the female.
To attract American Goldfinches to your backyard, consider planting thistles and milkweed. Additionally, they frequent most bird feeders and display a particular fondness for sunflower and nyjer seeds.
Fun Fact: American Goldfinches often fall victim to the actions of Brown-headed Cowbirds, as these intruders lay their eggs within the Goldfinch nests. Regrettably, the seed-based diet provided by the Goldfinch parents is unsuitable for the Cowbird offspring, resulting in their eventual demise.
4. Yellow Warbler:
Yellow Warblers rank as the second most commonly sighted yellow birds during the breeding season in Wyoming. Their appearances peak between May and September and are observed in up to 22% of summer checklists.
These small, vibrant yellow birds possess yellow-green backs, with males exhibiting chestnut streaks on their breasts. Females and juveniles sport less intense colors than their male counterparts.
Scientific name: Setophaga petechia
Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (9-11 g)
Wingspan: 6.3-7.9 inches (16-20 cm)
Yellow Warblers undertake extensive migrations to breed in Canada and the United States (excluding southeastern states) before embarking on a journey to Central and South America for the winter season. However, they can be spotted during migration in southeastern regions of the United States.
Preferred habitats for Yellow Warblers include areas along streams, wetlands, thickets, and field edges, where they actively search for insects such as caterpillars, midges, beetles, bugs, and wasps.
To experience the captivating melodies of Yellow Warblers, listen to the provided song recording.
Yellow Warbler nests are typically found in small trees or shrubs and are constructed using bark, grass, and plant materials interwoven together, secured with spider webs to form a cup-like structure. The nests are then lined with softer materials such as hair, feathers, and plant down. The female lays up to seven eggs, which require approximately twelve days to hatch. The young birds remain in the nest for an additional ten days before venturing into the world.
To entice Yellow Warblers to visit your backyard, provide them with suet, oranges, peanut butter, and plants that bear berries. Additionally, cultivate native plants that attract insects without the use of pesticides, and avoid excessive tidiness. Birdbaths equipped with fountains, placed near secluded foliage, offer protection and serve as an added attraction.
Fun Fact: Yellow Warblers exhibit an intriguing behavior when confronted with Cowbird eggs in their nests. Upon detection, the Yellow Warblers construct a new nest on top of the old one, effectively restarting the nesting process. This behavior can be repeated up to six times!
5. Yellow-headed Blackbird:
Yellow-headed Blackbirds make their presence known in Wyoming during the summer season, particularly from April to October. They are recorded in 9% of checklists during this time.
These striking birds exhibit glossy black bodies with vibrant yellow heads and chests, along with white patches on their wings in males. Females, on the other hand, display a brown coloration instead of black, and their yellow heads appear less intense. Yellow-headed Blackbirds are larger in size compared to Red-winged Blackbirds.
Scientific name: Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus
Length: 8.3-10.2 inches (21-26 cm)
Weight: 1.6-3.5 ounces (44-100 g)
Wingspan: 16.5-17.3 inches (42-44 cm)
Yellow-headed Blackbirds breed in western and prairie wetlands, nesting within the reeds. They forage over the surrounding wetlands, grasslands, and fields, primarily seeking out insects during the summer season. Following breeding, these blackbirds migrate to fields and farmland in southwestern states and Mexico, forming large flocks to spend the winter.
During the summer months, Yellow-headed Blackbirds rely on insects as their primary food source, while they shift their diet to seeds and grains during the winter season.
To experience the distinctive sounds produced by Yellow-headed Blackbirds, listen to the provided audio recording.
Nests of Yellow-headed Blackbirds are constructed using long, wet stems woven together and attached to cattails or reeds above the water. The female lays 2 to 5 eggs, which hatch after approximately two weeks. The young birds require an additional week or two before they fledge from the nest.
To attract Yellow-headed Blackbirds to your yard, consider providing them with sunflower seeds.
Fun Fact: Yellow-headed Blackbirds employ a unique hunting technique of flipping over stones to flush out insects.
6. Cedar Waxwing:
Cedar Waxwings are predominantly sighted in Wyoming during the breeding season from June to September, although some individuals may remain throughout the year. They are recorded in 5% of summer checklists and 2% of winter checklists.
Elegantly social birds, Cedar Waxwings exhibit pale brown heads, chests, and crests, which gradually transition to gray on their backs, wings, and tails. Their bellies showcase a pale yellow coloration, while their wings display bright yellow tips. A narrow black mask graces their eyes, and their wingtips boast a vibrant shade of red.
Scientific name: Bombycilla cedrorum
Length: 5.5-6.7 inches (14-17 cm)
Weight: 1.1 ounce (32 g)
Wingspan: 8.7-11.8 inches (22-30 cm)
Cedar Waxwings breed in Canada before venturing to the southern United States, Mexico, and Central America for the winter season. They also reside year-round in the northern regions of the United States.
These birds can be found in berry bushes, woodlands, grasslands, towns, and along streams. They primarily feed on fruit, while insects also make up a part of their diet during the summer.
To listen to the distinctive call of the Cedar Waxwing, refer to the provided audio recording.
Nests of Cedar Waxwings are constructed in trees using twigs, grass, hair, and plant materials. The nests are lined with pine needles and soft grass. Cedar Waxwings lay up to six eggs, which require around twelve days to hatch. The young birds remain in the nest for approximately sixteen days before taking flight.
To attract Cedar Waxwings to your backyard, consider planting native
trees and shrubs that bear small fruits, such as serviceberry, dogwood, juniper, winterberry, and hawthorn. You can also try offering fruit on platform feeders.
Fun Fact: Cedar Waxwings engage in the act of gift-giving during courtship, passing items between potential mates.
7. Western Tanager:
Western Tanagers are spotted in Wyoming during the breeding season, primarily between May and October. They are recorded in 8% of summer checklists.
These birds showcase a vibrant ensemble, with their heads donning a flaming orange-red hue, complemented by a yellow body and black wings. Female Western Tanagers possess red faces and yellow-green bodies.
Scientific name: Piranga ludoviciana
Length: 6.3-7.5 inches (16-19 cm)
Weight: 0.8-1.3 ounces (24-36 g)
Western Tanagers breed in western U.S. states and western Canada, with sightings during migration occurring in the eastern and southern regions of their range. They spend their winter months in Mexico and Central America.
Open conifer forests serve as the preferred habitat for Western Tanagers, although their vibrant colors often keep them hidden within the canopy. Over the past four decades, their population has shown an upward trend.
During the summer season, Western Tanagers primarily feed on insects, including wasps and grasshoppers. In the fall and winter, they also consume various fruits.
To listen to the song of the Western Tanager, enjoy the provided audio recording.
Nests of Western Tanagers are constructed by females in open areas of trees. They employ large twigs as a foundation, weaving roots and smaller twigs to form a sturdy cup-shaped structure. The nest is then lined with soft grass, pine needles, hair, and other plant materials. Western Tanagers lay around four eggs, which require approximately two weeks to hatch.
To attract Western Tanagers, offer dried fruits, cut oranges, and other fruit varieties through bird feeders.
Fun Fact: The vibrant red coloring of Western Tanagers is believed to result from their consumption of insects that produce a pigment they cannot synthesize themselves.
8. Western Kingbird:
Western Kingbirds make appearances in Wyoming during the summer season, spanning from April to September. They are observed in 8% of checklists during this period.
These birds belong to the flycatcher family and exhibit yellow bellies, whitish chests, gray heads, grayish-brown wings, and black tails with white edges.
Scientific name: Tyrannus verticalis
Length: 7.9-9.4 inches (20-24 cm)
Weight: 1.3-1.6 ounces (37-46 g)
Wingspan: 15.0-16.1 inches (38-41 cm)
Western Kingbirds breed during the summer in western U.S. states, the plains region, and parts of Canada. They undertake migration to Mexico and Central America for the winter season, although some individuals may overwinter in the southern regions of Florida.
These birds can be found in open habitats and are often perched on fences and utility lines, waiting for insects to fly by before capturing them in mid-flight.
To listen to the call of Western Kingbirds, refer to the provided audio recording.
Nests of Western Kingbirds are usually built in trees or shrubs, although they also utilize human-made structures or posts. The nests are constructed by females using twigs, grass, and plant materials, woven together to form a cup-shaped structure. Western Kingbirds lay up to seven eggs, with an incubation period of two to three weeks. The young birds then require a similar timeframe before they leave the nest.
To attract Western Kingbirds to your yard,
create an insect-friendly environment and consider planting elderberry or hawthorn, which provide both insects and fruit as food sources.
Fun Fact: Western Kingbird parents continue to feed their young for approximately three weeks after they leave the nest.
9. Wilson’s Warbler:
Wilson’s Warblers are observed in Wyoming during the summer season, primarily between May and October. They are particularly abundant during the fall migration, appearing in 24% of checklists during this time.
These small, round yellow warblers boast a large black cap in males, while females possess a smaller black cap.
Scientific name: Cardellina pusilla
Length: 3.9-4.7 inches (10-12 cm)
Weight: 0.2-0.3 ounces (5-10 g)
Wingspan: 5.5-6.7 inches (14-17 cm)
Wilson’s Warblers breed in Canada, Alaska, and northwestern U.S. states. During migration, they can be spotted across all U.S. states. For the winter season, they migrate to Mexico and Central America.
These warblers can be found along streams in thickets and near forest edges, foraging for insects, larvae, and spiders.
To listen to the song of Wilson’s Warblers, enjoy the provided audio recording.
Nests of Wilson’s Warblers are discreetly positioned on the ground near trees or shrubs. Constructed from leaves, sedges, grass, and plant materials, the nests are lined with soft grass and animal hair. Wilson’s Warblers lay around five eggs, with an incubation period of approximately eleven days. The young birds require an additional ten days before they leave the nest.
To attract Wilson’s Warblers to your backyard, consider cultivating native trees and shrubs. It’s important to note that they do not visit feeders.
Fun Fact: When confronted with potential nest predators, Wilson’s Warblers employ a diversionary tactic, pretending to have a broken wing to draw the predator away before flying off.
10. Common Yellowthroat:
Common Yellowthroats are frequently observed in Wyoming during the breeding season, with appearances starting in April and migration commencing in October. They are documented in 6% of summer checklists.
These small songbirds exhibit brownish backs and vibrant yellow undersides, featuring long tails. Males possess black masks across their faces. The intensity of the yellow coloration can vary geographically, with some populations displaying a more olive-toned hue beneath.
Scientific name: Geothlypis trichas
Length: 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.3 ounces (9-10 g)
Wingspan: 5.9-7.5 inches (15-19 cm)
Common Yellowthroats breed across most of North America, excluding Alaska and northern Canada. Some populations remain resident year-round along the Gulf Coast and Pacific Southwest. During winter, they migrate south.
These birds are often found in marshy or wetland areas and brushy fields, residing amidst thick, tangled vegetation.
To listen to the song of the Common Yellowthroat, refer to the provided audio recording.
Nests of Common Yellowthroats are built by females in marshy areas, supported by reeds. The nests are constructed using grass, sedges, and leaves, forming a cup-like structure. Common Yellowthroats lay up to six eggs, which require approximately twelve days to hatch. The young birds leave the nest after a similar duration.
To attract Common Yellowthroats to larger backyards, dense vegetation and native plants that attract insects are key.
Fun Fact: The presence of a black mask on Common Yellowthroats serves as a visual cue to potential mates, and they will attack decoy birds with masks. However, they show no aggression toward birds lacking a mask.
11. Orange-crowned Warbler:
Orange-crowned Warblers can be observed in Wyoming during migration, particularly in the spring and fall. While their sightings are relatively infrequent, they add a splash of color to the avian population.
These warblers feature subdued plumage, with olive-brown or grayish-brown upperparts and pale yellow underparts. The orange crown, which is often concealed, is only visible on occasion.
Scientific name: Leiothlypis celata
Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (9-11 g)
Wingspan: 6.7-7.9 inches (17-20 cm)
Orange-crowned Warblers breed in various habitats across North America, including coniferous forests, mixed woodlands, and shrubby areas. During migration, they can be spotted in a wider range of habitats.
These warblers primarily forage for insects, spiders, and small berries. Their inconspicuous appearance allows them to blend seamlessly into the foliage while searching for food.
To listen to the song of the Orange-crowned Warbler, enjoy the provided audio recording.
Nests of Orange-crowned Warblers are typically built low to the ground, hidden within dense vegetation. The cup-shaped nests are constructed with grass, bark, and plant fibers, and lined with finer materials such as hair and feathers. The female lays around five eggs, with an incubation period of approximately two weeks.
Attracting Orange-crowned Warblers to your backyard can be challenging, as they prefer natural habitats. However, providing diverse native plants and maintaining an insect-friendly environment may increase the chances of their visitation.
Fun Fact: Despite their name, the orange crown of Orange-crowned Warblers is not often visible, as it is usually concealed by their feathers.
12. Lesser Goldfinch:
Lesser Goldfinches can be found in Wyoming during the summer season, particularly from May to August. They are relatively common and can often be seen in open areas.
These small finches display sexual dimorphism, with males exhibiting bright yellow underparts and a black cap on their heads. Females, on the other hand, have olive-gray upperparts and yellowish underparts.
Scientific name: Spinus psaltria
Length: 4.3-4.7 inches (11-12 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (8-12 g)
Wingspan: 7.1-7.5 inches (18-19 cm)
Lesser Goldfinches breed across western and central North America, from the southwestern United States to central Mexico. They prefer habitats such as open woodlands, brushy areas, and riparian zones.
These finches primarily feed on seeds, including those from sunflowers, thistles, and dandelions. Insects also form a part of their diet, particularly during the breeding season.
To listen to the song of the Lesser Goldfinch, refer to the provided audio recording.
Nests of Lesser Goldfinches are typically located in shrubs, trees, or vines, often at relatively low heights. The female constructs the nest using plant fibers, moss, and spiderwebs, and lines it with fine materials. Lesser Goldfinches lay up to five eggs, which hatch after a couple of weeks.
Attracting Lesser Goldfinches to your backyard can be achieved by providing appropriate food sources, such as Nyjer (thistle) seed and sunflower seeds. Planting native shrubs and trees that produce small seeds or fruits will also increase their interest.
Fun Fact: Lesser Goldfinches are known to hang upside down while feeding on plant material, showcasing their agility.
13. American Redstart:
American Redstarts can be spotted in Wyoming during migration, primarily in the spring and fall seasons. Their vibrant plumage and active foraging behavior make them a delightful sight.
These warblers are known for their striking black and orange coloration. Males display bold black markings on their backs, wings, and tails, with bright orange patches on their sides, belly, and undertail coverts. Females, on the other hand, exhibit grayish-olive upperparts and yellowish underparts.
Scientific name: Setophaga ruticilla
Length: 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (8-12 g)
Wingspan: 6.7-7.9 inches (17-20 cm)
American Redstarts breed in eastern North America and parts of Canada, primarily in deciduous and mixed forests. During migration, they can be seen in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, shrubby areas, and parks.
These warblers are highly active foragers, often seen hopping and fluttering among tree branches. They primarily feed on insects, which they catch in mid-air or glean from foliage.
To listen to the song of the American Redstart, enjoy the provided audio recording.
Nests of American Redstarts are constructed on or near the ground, typically hidden in dense vegetation. The female builds the nest using twigs, bark strips, grass, and plant fibers, and lines it with finer materials. American Redstarts lay around four to five eggs, with an incubation period of approximately two weeks.
Attracting American Redstarts to your backyard may be challenging, as they prefer mature forested habitats. However, providing diverse native trees and shrubs, along with maintaining an insect-rich environment, may increase the likelihood of their presence.
Fun Fact: American Redstarts are known for their distinctive flashing behavior, fanning out their tails and wings to startle and flush insects, making them easier to catch.
14. Orchard Oriole:
Orchard Orioles can be observed in Wyoming during the summer season, particularly from May to August. Their vibrant plumage and melodious songs make them a welcome addition to the avian chorus.
Male Orchard Orioles showcase a striking color combination, with a dark chestnut body, black head, and black wings. Females, on the other hand, exhibit olive-brown upperparts and yellowish underparts.
Scientific name: Icterus spurius
Length: 6.3-7.5 inches (16-19 cm)
Weight: 0.7-1.1 ounces (19-31 g)
Wingspan: 9.8-11.0 inches (25-28 cm)
Orchard Orioles breed in eastern and central North America, primarily in open woodlands, orchards, and riparian areas. During migration, they can be seen in a wider range of habitats.
These orioles primarily feed on insects during the breeding season, capturing them in flight or gleaning them from vegetation. They also consume nectar and fruit, particularly during migration.
To listen to the melodious song of the Orchard Oriole, refer to the provided audio recording.
Nests of Orchard Orioles are intricately woven, hanging pouches, suspended from the outer branches of trees. The female constructs the nest using grass, plant fibers, and other fine materials. Orchard Orioles lay around three to four eggs, with an incubation period of approximately two weeks.
Attracting Orchard Orioles to your backyard can be achieved by providing a diverse food supply, including nectar feeders, orange halves, and jelly. Planting native fruit-bearing trees and shrubs will also enhance their interest.
Fun Fact: Male Orchard Orioles undergo a molt after the breeding season, transitioning to a duller plumage similar to that of the female, which helps them blend into their surroundings during migration.
15. Dickcissel:
Dickcissels can be seen in Wyoming during the summer season, primarily from May to September. While they may not be as colorful as other species, their distinctive song and field markings make them noteworthy.
Male Dickcissels display a yellowish breast with a bold black bib and a yellow line above the eye. Their upperparts are primarily brown. Females have a more subdued appearance, with brownish upperparts and a pale breast.
Scientific name: Spiza americana
Length: 5.5-6.3 inches (14-16 cm)
Weight: 0.8-1.2 ounces (23-34 g)
Wingspan: 9.8-10.6 inches (25-27 cm)
Dickcissels breed in the central and southern regions of North America, primarily in grasslands, prairies, and meadows. During migration, they can be seen in a variety of open habitats.
These birds primarily feed on seeds, including those from grasses and weeds. During the breeding season, they also consume insects.
To listen to the song of the Dickcissel, enjoy the provided audio recording.
Nests of Dickcissels are constructed in grassy or weedy areas, typically positioned above the ground. The female builds the nest using grass and other plant materials, creating a cup-shaped structure. Dickcissels lay around four to five eggs, with an incubation period of approximately two weeks.
Attracting Dickcissels to your backyard may require providing open grassy spaces and planting native grasses and wildflowers that produce seeds. They may also be attracted to bird feeders offering appropriate seeds.
Fun Fact: The name “Dickcissel” originates from the distinct song of the male bird, which often sounds like the repetitive phrase “dick-cissel.”
16. Scott’s Oriole:
Scott’s Orioles can be observed in Wyoming during the summer season, particularly from May to September. Their bold coloration and unique habitat preferences make them a fascinating species to encounter.
Male Scott’s Orioles showcase vibrant yellow underparts, black wings with white wingbars, and a black head with a yellow face mask. Females, on the other hand, exhibit a more subdued appearance, with olive-yellow upperparts and yellowish underparts.
Scientific name: Icterus parisorum
Length: 7.5-8.7 inches (19-22 cm)
Weight: 1.2-1.3 ounces (34-37 g)
Wingspan: 11.8-12.2 inches (30-31 cm)
Scott’s Orioles breed in southwestern North America, primarily in arid habitats such as deserts, canyons, and foothills. They construct their nests in yucca plants or other large shrubs.
These orioles primarily feed on insects and spiders during the breeding season. They also consume nectar, fruit, and occasionally sip water from flowers.
To listen to the song of the Scott’s Oriole, refer to the provided audio recording.
Nests of Scott’s Orioles are intricately woven, hanging pouches, usually suspended from the outer branches of yucca plants or other shrubs. The female constructs the nest using grass, plant fibers, and fine materials. Scott’s Orioles lay around three to five eggs, with an incubation period of approximately two weeks.
Attracting Scott’s Orioles to your backyard may be challenging, as they have specific habitat requirements. Providing suitable nesting sites and cultivating nectar-producing flowers such as agave or honeysuckle may increase the likelihood of their presence.
Fun Fact: Scott’s Orioles are known for their intricate and beautifully woven nests, which can often be found hanging from the tips of yucca leaves.
17. Evening Grosbeak:
Evening Grosbeaks can be seen in Wyoming during the winter season, primarily from November to March. These winter visitors bring a burst of color to the landscape during the colder months.
Male Evening Grosbeaks exhibit a striking combination of yellow, black, and white plumage, with a large, robust beak. Females have a more subdued appearance, with grayish-brown upperparts and yellowish underparts.
Scientific name: Coccothraustes vespertinus
Length: 6.7-8.7 inches (17-22 cm)
Weight: 1.7-2.4 ounces (48-68 g)
Wingspan: 11.0-12.2 inches (28-31 cm)
Evening Grosbeaks breed in coniferous forests across western North America. During winter, they can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and residential areas where food sources are available.
These grosbeaks primarily feed on seeds, including those from conifer cones and various trees. They also consume berries and insects during the breeding season.
To listen to the call of the Evening Grosbeak, enjoy the provided audio recording.
Nests of Evening Grosbeaks are built in the branches of conifer trees, typically positioned high above the ground. The female constructs the nest using twigs, grass, and plant fibers, creating a sturdy cup-shaped structure. Evening Grosbeaks lay around three to four eggs, with an incubation period of approximately two weeks.
Attracting Evening Grosbeaks to your backyard during their winter visitation can be achieved by providing a variety of seeds and nuts, including sunflower seeds and black oil sunflower seeds. They may also be attracted to bird feeders offering appropriate food sources.
Fun Fact: Evening Grosbeaks are known for their group behavior and often forage and migrate in large flocks, creating a vibrant spectacle in the winter landscape.