Date: 9/17/26 2:08 pm From: Suzanne Kent <surreykent...> Subject: [MBBIRDS] Possible male Hepatic Tanager in Westside Santa Cruz
First thing: There should NOT be a Hepatic Tanager in Santa Cruz - I know that!
What I observed: At approx. 1:30 PM today I checked out my ever-active suet feeder and observed a large tanager with the exact plumage coloration of a male Hepatic Tanager sitting on top of the feeder, in perfect light, in profile, starting to eat. It’s coloration was very evenly red, but a dull grayish red, with a dull grey-looking beak.
To my great frustration, a Scrub Jay on the nearby platform feeder flew at the tanager in a hostile manner, scaring it off. No chance to carefully look for the grey cheek that is an important ID sign. However, I have observed a male Summer Tanager, with its tropical red plumage and very light-colored bill, coming to the same feeder for four consecutive days one winter a couple of years ago. I also see Scarlet Tanagers each summer back East. Today’s Tanager was very notably more grayish red.
My suet feeder is hung on a pole only a few feet from an overgrown Coffeeberry covered with ripening berries.
Westsiders, please watch your yards and look for this bird.
