About

Basics

The Rose-Breasted Grosbeak (RBG) is a large finch in the cardinal family. It has a large beak, from which it derives its name: "grosbec" is "large beak" in French. It is a North American bird, breeding in Canada and the northern U.S.

Range

Summer Range:
Breeds from southern Yukon southeastward to northern North Dakota, eastward to Newfoundland, and southward to Nebraska, New Jersey, and in the mountains to northern Georgia.

Winter Range:
Winters from southern Mexico to northern South America and the Caribbean.

(Range Map - Click!)

Habitat

Breeds in deciduous and mixed woodlands, especially at the edges, second-growth woodlands, orchards, suburban parks and gardens. Winters in open tropical forest.

Food

Insects, seeds, fruits, and buds. Gleans insects from foliage and branches. Will use bird feeders.

Reproduction

Nest Type:
A loose, open cup of sticks, twigs, grasses, weed stems, decayed leaves or straw, lined with fine twigs, rootlets, or hair. Placed in trees, shrubs, or vines.

Egg Description:
Pale green or blue with reddish brown blotches and speckles. Usually 4 eggs. Range: 1-5.