Male scarlet tanagers: In the summer, male scarlet tanagers are bright red with black wings and tails. However, in late summer, they molt and their red feathers fade to a duller yellow color. During this time, they may appear blotchy with a mix of scarlet and yellow-olive.

Female scarlet tanagers: Female scarlet tanagers are olive-yellow with darker wings and tails.

Fall migration: When male scarlet tanagers start to change color, it's a sign that fall migration season is approaching. By the time they're ready to migrate south for the winter, all scarlet tanagers will have yellow and black or gray plumage.