challenge target
Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Pheucticus ludovicianus
Migration prize that can pause at sunflower feeders beneath leafy trees.
Quick identification
Know the field marks.
- Male is black and white with red breast triangle
- Female is brown-streaked with bold pale eyebrow
- Large pale seed-cracking bill
Where to look
Woodland edges and mature tree canopies during migration.
Missouri timing
When it may visit.
ColumbiaApr · May · Aug · Sep · Oct
St. LouisApr · May · Aug · Sep · Oct
Season windows are practical guidance, not a guarantee. Weather and migration vary.
Attraction plan
Build the best invitation.
Hopper feeder
Be ready during spring and fall migration windows.
- Serve
- Black-oil sunflower
- Place
- Keep a broad, freshly stocked feeder near mature deciduous trees.
Ground or platform feeder
A platform gives a grosbeak's large body and bill space.
- Serve
- Black-oil sunflower
- Place
- Use a raised tray with open landing room.
Care note: Keep seed fresh even when migrants are absent; empty stale food rather than topping it off.
Same station, more possibilities
Related birds.
Learn more
Trusted field references
- Species guide: Rose-breasted GrosbeakCornell Lab of Ornithology ↗
- Bird FeedingMissouri Department of Conservation ↗
BirdQuest summary last reviewed 2026-07-20. External sources open in a new tab.