Western Tanager

red, yellow, and black songbird perched on tree branch
Western Tanager. USFWS.

Quick Facts
Type: Bird

Diet: Omnivore: Insects, berries, seeds

Average lifespan: 8 years (but can live up to 15 years)

Average size: Length: 6–7.5 in.; Wingspan: 11 in.

Average weight: 0.8–1 oz.

Did You Know?
Male western tanagers have a bright scarlet head. However, the red pigment in their feathers is not produced in the bird itself and may instead be found in the insects that they eat.

Last updated: November 9, 2018