Spotted Towhee
NameSpotted Towhee
Common NameSpotted Towhee
Scientific NamePipilo maculatus
FamilyPasserellidae
Wingspan (cm)30.5
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)39.5
Plumage DetailsMales have a black head, throat, and upperparts, with prominent white spots and streaks on the back and wings. The flanks are a rich rufous-chestnut, and the belly is white. Females are similar but with grayish-brown replacing the black areas. Both sexes have striking red eyes.
Vocalization / CallTheir song is a varied, often musical trill, sometimes described as 'drink-your-tea!'. They also have a sharp, cat-like 'chewink' or 'tow-hee' call.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across western North America, from southern British Columbia and Alberta south through the western United States to Mexico.
Identifying Featuresblack head (male), rufous flanks, white belly, spotted back and wings, red eyes, long tail, two-footed scratch foraging
Description
The Spotted Towhee is a striking ground-dwelling bird known for its distinctive plumage and foraging habits. Males feature a black head and back, rufous flanks, and a white belly, often seen scratching vigorously in leaf litter for food. They are common in brushy habitats across western North America.
