#spindalises

Photo: Ekaterina Chernetsova

"Apparently specialized for life on islands, the Western Spindalis is widespread in the Caribbean, but it seldom visits the mainland. In our area it is a rare visitor to southern Florida. Most records have been of single birds in winter, but reports of small groups present in spring suggest the possibility that the bird may nest in Florida occasionally. It was formerly called Stripe-headed Tanager."

Photo: Lisa Johnson

"A somewhat small woodland bird that moves rather deliberately as it feeds on fruits and flowers and the occasional insect. Inhabits wide range of woodlands, though generally avoids mangroves. Male is dressed in bright yellows and oranges with a distinctive black-and-white striped head. Female is drab, but note distinctive whitish mustache. Calls include a variety of high-pitched squeaks and short whistles."