Scarlet Tanager
Piranga olivacea
The Scarlet Tanager is a rare migrant to Britain, typically seen in the spring and autumn, and is most often spotted in woodland areas with dense deciduous cover. It is a medium-sized American songbird that is an uncommon sight in British skies.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Scarlet Tanager in the field.
The Scarlet Tanager can be identified by its bright red body, black wings and tail, and a distinctive grey back, with the male's plumage being particularly vibrant. Its shape and size, combined with its colouration, make it a standout species.
The Scarlet Tanager is slightly smaller than a Starling, making it a medium-sized bird that is easily recognizable.
The male Scarlet Tanager has a bright red body with black wings and tail, and a grey back, with this vibrant plumage being a key identifying feature, particularly during the breeding season.
The female Scarlet Tanager has a more subdued yellow-green plumage with grey wings and tail, and a yellow-green back, making her less conspicuous than the male.
The Scarlet Tanager's call is a series of short, sharp chips, while its song is a melodic series of whistled phrases, often described as a hoarse, burry warble.
The Scarlet Tanager is a woodland bird that forages for insects and fruit in the trees, and can be seen flying between branches with a swift, direct flight style, often making short, darting flights.
The Scarlet Tanager can be confused with other tanager species, but its grey back and black wings distinguish it from the Summer Tanager, while its size and shape differentiate it from the American Redstart.
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