Gray Catbird
NameGray Catbird
Common NameGray Catbird
Scientific NameDumetella carolinensis
FamilyMimidae
Wingspan (cm)26
Length (cm)22
Weight (g)35
Plumage DetailsOverall slate gray plumage with a distinct black cap covering the crown and forehead. A rusty or rufous patch is visible under the tail (undertail coverts). The eyes are dark, and the bill is slender and black.
Vocalization / CallFamous for its distinctive cat-like 'mew' call. Its song is a long, jumbled series of musical and harsh notes, often mimicking other birds but without the repeated phrases characteristic of mockingbirds.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across much of temperate North America, from southern Canada south to the Gulf Coast. Winters primarily in the southeastern United States, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.
Identifying FeaturesPlain gray plumage, Black cap, Rufous undertail patch, Cat-like mew call, Jumbled, varied song
Description
The Gray Catbird is a medium-sized songbird known for its plain gray plumage and distinctive cat-like mewing call. It often forages secretively in dense shrubbery, feeding on a mix of insects and fruits.
