Western Tanager
A vivid western woodland visitor that benefits most from mature trees, insects, fruiting plants, and clean moving water.
By Birdly Yard Editorial TeamReviewed Updated
Local season
Months with a state-level historical signal for this species.
Status
Historical seasonal record
Look for it
Scan open conifer and mixed woodland canopy, riparian trees, parks, and wooded gardens, especially in migration.
Food
Mostly insects during breeding, with berries and other fruit becoming more important later in the year.
Nesting
Natural nesting guidance
One useful next step
Build for the habitat, not just the feeder.
Open conifer or mixed woodland, mature canopy, forest edges, native fruiting shrubs, and water create a useful stopover setting.
See the yard actionsA good yard is layered
Food helps, but cover, clean water, native plants, and a safe distance from hazards make a more dependable place for birds.
Western Tanager habitat
Open conifer or mixed woodland, mature canopy, forest edges, native fruiting shrubs, and water create a useful stopover setting.
Western Tanager diet and food
Mostly insects during breeding, with berries and other fruit becoming more important later in the year.
It rarely uses seed; fresh orange or other fruit in small amounts and a clean birdbath may help within suitable wooded habitat.
How to attract it
Food & feeder
Mostly insects during breeding, with berries and other fruit becoming more important later in the year.
Cover & plants
Open conifer or mixed woodland, mature canopy, forest edges, native fruiting shrubs, and water create a useful stopover setting.
Western Tanager nesting and breeding
Builds an open tree nest in the canopy; retain mature trees and leave active nesting areas undisturbed.
Western Tanager behavior and where to look
Gleans quietly high among twigs, leaves, and flowers, with occasional short flights after insects.
Photography
Wait at a natural fruiting branch or water source and avoid playback or chasing a canopy bird.
What to avoid
Do not leave cut fruit out to spoil or assume a colorful migration visit means a yard will host a breeding pair.
Continue exploring
Explore related bird guides
Compare food, habitat and nesting. Local seasonal records vary by species.
