What field observation helps confirm *P. ludoviciana*'s placement in **Cardinalidae**?
Answer
Hovering briefly to pick insects off foliage
Confirmation of the Western Tanager's classification within Cardinalidae can be supported by observing its feeding behavior, which provides functional evidence aligning with its relatives rather than other taxonomic groups. While tanagers in the text are known for seed-eating, a feeding style common to their *Cardinalidae* relatives involves briefly hovering near foliage to snatch insects. This contrasts with the exclusive ground-gleaning behavior often seen in true sparrows (Family Passerellidae). Furthermore, their relatively stout bills, suitable for cracking seeds, support their placement alongside cardinals and grosbeaks rather than migratory tanagers in the Thraupidae family.
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