photo by Phil Swanson

Leucosticte tephrocotis
L 6 1/4″ (16 cm).

Song or calls:
Give harsh “cheep, cheep” notes in flight. 

Description: Adult male has dark brown back and underparts; pink wash on lower belly; black forehead and tail; gray nape and crown; and pink shoulder and rump. Face may be gray or brown. Female is similar but duller and grayer.

Habitat: Open plains, fields, weedy areas, and occasionally at residential bird feeders. Rare and irregular winter visitor.

Where in Nebraska: Seen mainly in the Panhandle, but also seen in Brown, Perkins, and Gage Counties.

Field Notes: During the breeding season both the male and female develop a pair of gular pouches which they use to carry food to the young.

Fun Facts: Due to the remoteness of its breeding sites in alpine areas, few nests have been found.

(click image for larger view)