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Rose-breasted Grosbeak plumage



The male and female R-b Grosbeaks that arrived at my feeders this AM are 
still present, and have seen another female as well.  Guess they're in no 
hurry to leave with the rainy, cooler weather.

They are choosing to perch on the tube feeder that contains black oil 
sunflower, ignoring so far the nearby platform feeder with the same seed.

So, as they flap to balance themselves on the perches, I am able to get good 
views of their underwing coverts, which are a bright yellow on the female and 
a deep rose on the male.  These aren't very apparent normally, at least to 
me.  I only realized the female had this bright coloring when one hit a 
window last fall and I actually had her in my hand.  By the way, their bills 
are very powerful!

The only field guide that I have that shows the underwing coverts in these 
birds is the Sibley guide.
Shelley Theye

Shelley Theye
N. Chatham County, NC
Psbmt@aol.com