Townsend's Solitaire
NameTownsend's Solitaire
Common NameTownsend's Solitaire
Scientific NameMyadestes townsendi
FamilyTurdidae
Wingspan (cm)38.5
Length (cm)22
Weight (g)32
Plumage DetailsThis bird has an overall dull gray plumage, appearing slightly paler on the belly. Key features include a prominent white eye-ring, a small buffy patch at the base of the primary flight feathers (visible on the folded wing), and white outer tail feathers that are most noticeable in flight.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its beautiful, flute-like, and ethereal song, often delivered from a high perch. It also has a distinctive, soft 'peep' call.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in mountainous regions of western North America, from Alaska and western Canada south through the western United States to central Mexico. In winter, it moves to lower elevations and can sometimes be found further east.
Identifying Featureswhite eye-ring, overall gray plumage, slender body, upright posture, buffy wing patch, white outer tail feathers, flute-like song
Description
The Townsend's Solitaire is a slender, medium-sized songbird known for its distinctive upright posture and ethereal song. It is primarily found in coniferous and mixed forests of western North America, often at higher elevations. This species is particularly notable for its winter diet, which heavily relies on juniper berries.
