One of the "winter" finches that appear unpredictably in the state, the White-winged Crossbill wanders in flocks year-round searching for food, and may actually be seen in parts of Oregon in any month of the year.

Its peculiar twisted bill, specialized for prying seeds out of conifer cones, is smaller than that of the Red Crossbill, and it prefers smaller, softer cones, mainly spruce. Males are a dull pinkish red, with distinctive broad with bars on black wings. Females are dusty brown and dull yellow with blurry streaks.

The White-winged crossbill is a very rare and erratic visitor in Oregon. Successful breeding has not yet been confirmed in Oregon. It may occur at any time of year in northeast Oregon, especially in the Wallowa Valley, but also has been reported from the John Day area in Grant County, Langdon Lake area in Umatilla County, and Anthony Lakes in northwest Baker County.

Hear the call of the White-winged crossbill

Photo by Peter, Flickr