How to identify the Evening Grosbeak

To correctly identify the Evening Grosbeak (Coccothraustes vespertinus), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

18-22 cm (7.1-8.7 in)

Wingspan

30-36 cm (11.8-14.2 in)

Weight

50-70 g (1.8-2.5 oz)

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Males are brightly colored with a bright yellow body, dark head with a prominent yellow eyebrow, and large white patches on the black wings. Females and juveniles are duller, mostly grayish-brown with yellowish tinges, especially on the flanks and nape, and smaller white wing patches.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Very large, conical, and pale yellowish-green to ivory-colored bill, particularly noticeable in males. The bill can appear darker in winter.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Dark brown.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Pinkish-brown to dark brown.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   Massive, pale bill; short, notched tail; and distinctive white wing patches (more extensive in males).

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Similar to females but often with more streaking on the underparts and a duller overall appearance. The bill is initially smaller and darker.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   Little to no significant seasonal plumage change, though bill color can vary slightly with season (paler in breeding season, sometimes darker in winter).

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Pronounced. Males are much more brightly colored with vivid yellow and black, while females are predominantly grayish-brown with less extensive yellow and white markings.

Key field marks

• Size and Shape. Look for a large, stocky finch with a short tail and a very large, conical bill.
• Male Plumage. Bright yellow body, black wings with large white patches, dark head with a yellow eyebrow. Unmistakable.
• Female/Juvenile Plumage. Grayish-brown overall with yellowish tinges, especially on the flanks and nape. Look for smaller but still noticeable white wing patches and the characteristic large, pale bill.
• Bill. The massive, pale yellowish-green to ivory bill is a key identifier for all ages and sexes.
• Calls. Listen for the sharp, metallic 'peck' or 'cleep' call, often given in flight or while feeding in flocks.

Explore the Evening Grosbeak