If you’re exploring Wisconsin’s forests, lakeshores, or even your backyard, chances are you’ve glimpsed a flash of red darting through the trees. Red birds are not only eye-catching but also bring an exciting splash of color to the natural landscape. Whether you’re a casual birdwatcher or a devoted enthusiast, spotting these vibrant creatures is always a delightful experience.
Wisconsin is home to a variety of red-colored birds, ranging from tiny songbirds to larger species with bold markings. Some sport entirely red plumage, while others feature red accents on their head, chest, or wings. Each of these birds adds a unique visual flair and serves a role in the local ecosystem—from seed dispersal to insect control.
In this guide, you’ll discover over 15 striking red birds found across Wisconsin. You’ll learn how to identify them, where to find them, and key facts about their size, behavior, and scientific classification. So grab your binoculars, and let’s dive into the vivid world of Wisconsin’s red-feathered residents.
Contents
15+ Red Birds in Wisconsin
Northern Cardinal
The Northern Cardinal is probably the most recognizable red bird in Wisconsin. With its brilliant red feathers and melodic song, it’s a favorite among birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.
Males are bright red with a striking black mask around the face, while females are more muted with tan and red tones. Both sexes share a distinctive crest on top of their head and a strong orange beak.
You’ll often spot them at backyard feeders, especially in winter, where their color contrasts sharply against the snow.
Scientific name: Cardinalis cardinalis
Wingspan: 9.8–12.2 inches
Length: 8.3–9.1 inches
Weight: 1.5–1.7 oz
Northern Cardinals are permanent residents in Wisconsin and are highly territorial during breeding season. They feed on seeds, berries, and insects.
Scarlet Tanager
The Scarlet Tanager is a summer visitor in Wisconsin’s deciduous forests. Males are striking with fiery red bodies and jet-black wings and tails. Females, on the other hand, are yellowish-green with darker wings.
You’ll need to head into forested areas to spot this elusive bird, as they prefer the upper canopy and are shy by nature.
Scientific name: Piranga olivacea
Wingspan: 9.8–11.4 inches
Length: 6.3–6.7 inches
Weight: 0.8–1.3 oz
Their diet includes insects like beetles and caterpillars, along with berries and fruit. Their rich, robin-like song is often heard before the bird is seen.
House Finch
Though originally native to the western U.S., the House Finch is now common across Wisconsin. Males have a rosy red face and chest, blending into brown-streaked bodies. Females are plain brown with streaks and lack the red coloration.
You’ll find them around cities, suburbs, and rural areas, often congregating at feeders.
Scientific name: Haemorhous mexicanus
Wingspan: 8.0–10.0 inches
Length: 5.1–5.5 inches
Weight: 0.6–0.9 oz
House Finches are highly social and feed on seeds, buds, and fruits. Their warbling song is cheerful and varied, making them a joy to observe.
Red-headed Woodpecker
The Red-headed Woodpecker is a bold and eye-catching species with its crimson head, white underparts, and black-and-white wings. It’s one of the few woodpeckers with an entirely red head.
This bird is found in open woodlands, groves, and even near farmland.
Scientific name: Melanerpes erythrocephalus
Wingspan: 16.5 inches
Length: 7.5–9.1 inches
Weight: 2.0–3.2 oz
They’re known for catching insects in mid-air and storing food in tree crevices. Their population has declined in some areas, making sightings special.
Summer Tanager
A rare but possible visitor in southern Wisconsin, the male Summer Tanager is all red, with a uniform plumage that’s not broken by black or brown. Females are golden-yellow.
They prefer open woodlands and are more common in the southeastern U.S., but have been recorded during migration.
Scientific name: Piranga rubra
Wingspan: 11.0–12.0 inches
Length: 6.7 inches
Weight: 1.0–1.1 oz
Summer Tanagers eat bees and wasps, often catching them mid-flight and removing their stingers before eating.
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Despite its name, the Red-bellied Woodpecker’s most visible red part is its head. Males have a bright red cap extending from the bill to the nape, while females have red only on the nape and above the bill.
They’re commonly seen in forests, suburbs, and parks.
Scientific name: Melanerpes carolinus
Wingspan: 13.0–16.5 inches
Length: 9.4 inches
Weight: 2.0–3.2 oz
These birds feed on insects, fruits, seeds, and occasionally sap. Their loud, rolling calls are easy to recognize.
Purple Finch
The Purple Finch has a raspberry-red head and chest that fades into brown wings and back. Females are streaked brown and white.
They breed in northern Wisconsin and may migrate further south in winter.
Scientific name: Haemorhous purpureus
Wingspan: 8.7–10.2 inches
Length: 4.7–6.3 inches
Weight: 0.6–1.1 oz
They feed on seeds, buds, and berries and prefer coniferous forests but also visit feeders.
Red Crossbill
Red Crossbills are unique for their crossed mandibles, which help them extract seeds from pine cones. Males are brick-red overall, while females are yellowish or olive.
They’re mostly found in northern coniferous forests but occasionally travel in flocks to other parts of the state.
Scientific name: Loxia curvirostra
Wingspan: 10.2–11.0 inches
Length: 5.5–6.5 inches
Weight: 0.9–1.4 oz
These birds are nomadic and follow cone crops. Their calls are sharp and metallic.
FAQs
1. What is the most common red bird in Wisconsin?
The Northern Cardinal is the most common and easily recognizable red bird in Wisconsin, seen year-round.
2. Are all red birds male?
Not always. In many species like the Northern Cardinal and House Finch, only males are red, but some species show red coloration in both sexes.
3. When is the best time to see red birds in Wisconsin?
Spring and summer offer the best chances, especially during breeding season. However, some red birds like the Northern Cardinal are visible even in winter.
4. Can I attract red birds to my yard?
Yes! Use bird feeders with sunflower seeds, suet, and berries. Plant native shrubs and trees for shelter and food.
5. Are red birds rare in Wisconsin?
Not at all. Several red birds are common or seasonal visitors. Some rarer species like the Summer Tanager may only appear during migration.
Conclusion
Wisconsin is a fantastic place to observe a wide range of red birds. Whether you’re spotting the cheerful Northern Cardinal in your backyard or hiking through forests in search of the elusive Scarlet Tanager, there’s always a chance to enjoy their vibrant beauty. These birds aren’t just stunning to look at—they also play important roles in the ecosystem.
From year-round residents to seasonal migrants, red birds bring excitement and color to every corner of the state. With the help of this guide, you’re now equipped to identify and appreciate these feathered gems in the wild or at your feeder. So next time you’re outdoors, keep your eyes peeled—you might just spot a new red-feathered friend.
