CLOSED: Pine Grosebeak

Here is what may be a Pine Grosbeak. The beak just seems to be a Grosbeak not a Purple finch. If so are they still rare to see in Ohio? Thank you!

This is a Purple Finch. I think it is either the background or something on the tip of the bill that gives the illusion of a Grosbeak. All the markings show Purple Finch, otherwise. Here is a link to a Pine Grosbeak. See how he has a smooth "red" on face and breast?

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

Thank you Chillybean! I got a new book with actual photos and I agree 100% with you! The Purple Finch's beak is much bigger in the picture than in Peterson's drawing. Thank you for your help!
Joan

It sure would be awesome to see the Pine Grosbeak someday!

You're welcome. :)

It seems my favourite guides are those with photos. Sometimes the lighting is off, but it helps me so much more than illustrations.

I did read because there is an abundance of food sources up north this year that not many Redpolls, Grosbeaks, etc will be making their way south.
http://ebird.org/content/ebird/news/wf1314/

Last year we were bombarded with Common Redpolls and a few Siskins, but none of the Grosbeaks or Crossbills.

I have had a pair of Red-breasted Grosbeaks come to my feeders a few times but no others. I have never seen a Redpoll. I will see if they are seen in Ohio. We have an abundance of Siskins in the spring but then I believe they go farther North for the summer. I would be thrilled to see a Crossbill sometime. What fun! I know Cedar Waxwings are in the area but have yet to see one. I feel so blessed to have the variety I have in my backyard but hope to start visiting areas to add to my list of sightings! Thank you again for your help. I am sure I will be asking for more help in the near future!