Bendire's Thrasher
NameBendire's Thrasher
Common NameBendire's Thrasher
Scientific NameToxostoma bendirei
FamilyMimidae
Wingspan (cm)30.5
Length (cm)25.5
Weight (g)60
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are dull grayish-brown, contrasting with paler underparts that exhibit faint, diffuse spotting on the breast and flanks. It has a whitish throat, buffy undertail coverts, and distinctive bright yellow eyes. The bill is relatively short and slightly decurved.
Vocalization / CallThe song is a varied and musical series of phrases, often incorporating mimicry, similar to other thrashers but generally less harsh. Call notes include a sharp 'whit' or 'chuck'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in the southwestern United States (southeastern California, southern Nevada, Arizona, southwestern Utah, and extreme southwestern New Mexico) and winters in southern Arizona, southern California, and northwestern Mexico.
Identifying Featuresyellow eyes, short, slightly decurved bill, faint breast spotting, dull grayish-brown plumage, ground foraging behavior
Description
A medium-sized thrasher characterized by its dull grayish-brown plumage, faintly spotted breast, and striking yellow eyes. This species typically forages on the ground in arid scrublands, using its bill to probe for insects and seeds.
