Mountain Top PA
2013

Grosbeak Songbird Symbolism & Meaning

Considered a songbird and a relative to the glorious Finch, Grosbeak symbolizes the happiness in your family, among friends, and with new acquaintances. They are akin to Crossbills and Redpolls, all of whom live in North and South America and parts of Eurasia. Grosbeak’s name comes from a French term, “gros bec,” as meaning “thick beak,” a physical attribute allowing the Grosbeak to crack seeds with little trouble.

Grosbeaks are gypsies of a sort, so, they embody the “Gypsy Spirit.” Rather than follow a traditional migratory route, they break out of the pattern and track their food wherever it appears. Favored treats include Sunflower Seeds, Safflower, insects, and salt from mineral springs; their diet symbolizes all-natural choices in one’s eating habits, and a penchant for holistic healing modalities.

It’s common to find Grosbeak tweeting in the trees at unexpected times of the year. Something is charming about their lack of structure, which offers a surprise to the unsuspecting person on a stroll. The melodious whistle of the Grosbeak fills the air when summer is warm. The Rose-Breasted Grosbeak is easy to spot, making weeping calls or another sound seeming like metal clinking. Their song is like a Robin’s, but it sounds as if the Bird has had years of musical training.

Males sing in flight to show off to an intended. The female chooses a male who has the most impressive songs. Once mated, the Grosbeak warble while nesting. Both the male and female Groesbeck incubate the eggs, the father serenading them all the while. Grosbeaks are emblems of fidelity as the creature mates for life. Even in passing, the couple trills in the air. If their gestures weren’t romantic enough, they appear to prefer the enchanting moonlight for making beautiful canticles together.

The symbolism of communication with intent continues with other specific vocalizations like a single-note flight call signaling movement. Grosbeak’s flight calls have an “accent,” being specific to a population in various parts of the country. So, when several Grosbeaks find themselves together, an observer can figure out their origins by using a keen ear. Here, the creature symbolizes a strong and lasting connection with one’s origins, while also signifying the act of sharing one’s unique vision or voice.

Meanings for Grosbeaks change slightly with their color. Seeing the Eastern Blue Grosbeak portends family harmony. The green and blue feathers unite to signify abundance, and should one sing near a wedding; there will be great strength and longevity in the relationship. A Black-Headed Grosbeak isn’t so positive as an omen, however. A person you know may cheat, experience losses, feel sad, or face separation. The Rose Headed Grosbeak is an omen focusing on matters of the heart. The rose coloring tells you to find your heart song for healing; it suggests a time for forgiveness so a relationship can move forward again.