We had only one day dedicated to birding on our recent trip to Banff, and I had a long list of lifers I wanted to try and see. High on that list was a Pine Grosbeak. If I was really lucky both a male and a female. The makes are red, the females yellow and both are beautiful.

Fate and an exceptional guide were kind. Not only did I see the Grosbeak, but just about every other bird on my list as well. An excellent way to start the year.

Name: Pine Grosbeak
Scientific Name: Pinicola enucleator
Status: Least Concern
Sound: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Pine_Grosbeak/sounds

Learn more:
https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Pine_Grosbeak/id
https://www.audubon.org/field-guide/bird/pine-grosbeak