Abert's Towhee
NameAbert's Towhee
Common NameAbert's Towhee
Scientific NameMelozone aberti
FamilyPasserellidae
Wingspan (cm)26.5
Length (cm)23
Weight (g)45
Plumage DetailsOverall dull brown plumage, slightly paler on the belly. It has a distinctive dark brown or blackish face and lores, contrasting with a pale, conical bill. The undertail coverts are often a rusty or cinnamon color.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a series of accelerating, high-pitched chips or trills, often described as 'chip-chip-chip-chip-churr-churr-churr'. Calls include a sharp 'chip' note.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeRestricted to the southwestern United States (primarily Arizona, southeastern California, southern Nevada, and extreme southwestern Utah) and northwestern Mexico.
Identifying FeaturesUniform dull brown plumage, Dark face (lores and around the eye), Pale, conical bill, Long tail, Ground-foraging behavior (two-footed scratch)
Description
The Abert's Towhee is a large, plain brown sparrow known for its ground-foraging habits, often scratching vigorously with both feet. It is a shy bird, typically found in dense brush and riparian areas, but also adapts to suburban environments.
