Painted Bunting - One of God's Most Colorful Creations

     Today's featured feathered friend is the Painted Bunting.  Painted Buntings are small songbirds of the Cardinal family.  They measure just over 5 inches in length and weight less than one ounce.

     The male Painted Bunting is undoubtedly the most colorful bird in North America.  He has a blue head, red underparts and a green back.  Females and immatures are a bright yellow-green overall, with a pale eye ring.  Because of their dazzling plumage, males are caught and sold illegally as cage birds, particularly in Mexico and the Caribbean.  Their conservation status is Near Threatened.  

     Their summer range includes the southern most states and the Carolinas.  They migrate through Mexico and Florida on the way to their wintering grounds in Central America and the Caribbean.  We have been blessed to have them stop by our backyard for a seed and a bath each year since we moved to Florida. 
     Click on this link  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r-IJtSL4oAo&feature=youtu.be  to watch a short video of a male Painted Bunting.  Enjoy the photos of these stunning birds.....tweet.....tweet!!

 

Male Painted Bunting enjoying a bath.
(Taken 3/10/2012, Our Backyard)



Female Painted Bunting blending into the greenery.
(Taken 1/12/13, Our Backyard)



Male Painted Bunting striking a pose.
(Taken 3/8/13, Our Backyard)



Female Painted Bunting
(Taken 12/24/12, Our Backyard)

http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Painted_Bunting/id

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Painted_Bunting