What IS this? (besides ugly)

[troutbreath]

So often, we find visions of beauty in our backyards as songbirds visit our feeders. Sometimes they are joined by squirrels & chipmunks, and other woodland creatures. Today, I found this. Any ideas? Slightly larger than a cardinal, but with a similar beak, and the had of a vulture. Yuck.

http://www.michaelrparker.com/images/mystery_bird_4.jpg

http://www.michaelrparker.com/images/mystery_bird_2.jpg

http://www.michaelrparker.com/images/mystery_bird_3.jpg

http://www.michaelrparker.com/images/mystery_bird_1.jpg

[nwyman]

oh dear. It looks like one of those cardinals with mite infestation. There should be a thread on it somewhere on this forum.

[troutbreath]

I did a search, and I believe you are right. This one, I am guessing, is female. And homely.