Live in iowa, i've seen this red bird with a black buzzard-like head. anyone know what it is?

Question

it's the size of a robin. there are two of them. they stay together and sing really pretty. thanks

Answer 1

Some northern cardinals have certain parasites that cause the feathers on their head to fall out, giving them a buzzard-like look.

Otherwise, possibly orchard oriole.  I would recommend searching for "bald cardinals" and orchard oriole online and see if perhaps they match you mystery birds.

Answer 2

Tanger? Or it could be a piliated woodpecker. The singing would leave out the woodpecker. Those piliated woodpeckers sound like something from a Rain Forest. Wish I could be more help.

Answer 3

I live in Iowa too... I am real sure i have seen the same kind of bird you have... and i have no clue what it is either... Hopefully somebody knows.