tags: Purple Finch, Carpodacus purpureus, birds, mystery bird, bird ID quiz
[Mystery bird] Purple Finch, Carpodacus purpureus, photographed at the Perry Nature Area near Sioux Falls, South Dakota. [I will identify this bird for you in 48 hours]
Image: Terry Sohl, 21 March 2010 [larger view]. You are encouraged to purchase photographs from this photographer. I am happy to email his contact information to you.
Canon 50D, 400 5.6L.
Please name at least one field mark that supports your identification.
The short limbs it is showing give it away: T. rex.
Purple Finch, female-type. The strong head pattern is a good clue.
What a lovely shot! The beak and tail are also helpful for me.