A splash of color-Western Tanagers

Western Tanagers have infiltrated lowland riparian areas in SE Colorado as they make their migration stop-overs before heading to higher elevation for nesting. The males' plumage is so bright it is almost painful to look at them in the sunlight

I took these photos a a male Western Tanager on the east end of the Canon City Riverwalk. It's interesting that they appear to have orange eyerings that stand out from the reddish on their heads. As brightly colored as they are, they still try to avoid being seen by hiding quite effectively in the foliage (always astounding how well such colorful birds can blend into a green and brown background).