Indigo Bunting (Female-top) and Painted Bunting (Female-bottom)

Indigo Bunting (Female-top) and Painted Bunting (Female-bottom)

Painted Bunting (Passerina ciris) females are always a medium green on the back, nape, and crown. On the front, they average a greenish-yellow from the vent to the chin. Indigo Bunting (Passerina cyanea) females are brownish-gray on the back and may sometimes show a hint of indigo on the mantle. On the front, the upper breast is streaky with a tan wash. There is less streaking on the belly. There is no green color or even a yellowish-green like the Painted Bunting.

Status and Distribution in North-central Texas - Both species are common migrants and fairly common summer residents in rural areas.

Indigo Bunting (female) - Don Jeane

Painted Bunting (female) - Joseph Kennedy