Summer Tanager
Piranga rubra
The Summer Tanager is a rare migrant to Britain, typically seen during the autumn months, and is most often recorded in the southern and western regions of the country. It is a medium-sized American songbird that is an uncommon sight in British skies.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Summer Tanager in the field.
The Summer Tanager can be identified by its bright red head and body, grey wings and tail, and a distinctive white wing bar, with the male having a more vibrant colouration. Its shape and size are also notable, with a rounded head and a short, squared tail.
The Summer Tanager is slightly smaller than a Starling, with a length of around 17-19 cm.
The male Summer Tanager has a bright red plumage, with a deep red head, body, and rump, and grey wings and tail, with a white wing bar.
The female Summer Tanager is similar to the male but has a more subdued yellow-green plumage, with a greyish tinge to the wings and tail.
The Summer Tanager's call is a sharp, metallic "chip" sound, while its song is a series of short, musical phrases that are often described as sweet and melodious.
The Summer Tanager is an active and agile bird, often seen flitting between trees in search of insects and fruit, and has a distinctive flight style, with a rapid, fluttering wingbeat.
The Summer Tanager can be confused with the Scarlet Tanager, but can be distinguished by its grey wings and tail, and the male's brighter red colouration, as well as its more musical song.
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