White-winged Crossbill

Also known as: Two-barred Crossbill

15-18 cm (6-7") Fairly common but unpredictable - depending on availability of cones. Coniferous forests in summer especially spruce, hemlock; in winter ornamental trees, roadsides for salt.

Dark wings with two broad white wing bars; short dark tail. Distinctive crossed bill with which it noisily cracks open cones. Often dangles while feeding.

Male: bright pinkish-red overall.

Female: gray with olive on head and back; yellowish on breast and rump.

Song: canary-like warble and trills; flight call is a series of "chit" notes.

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