Varied Thrush
Image: Sean Vanderluit (cc-by-nc)
NameVaried Thrush
Common NameVaried Thrush
Scientific NameIxoreus naevius
FamilyTurdidae
Wingspan (cm)40
Length (cm)24.5
Weight (g)82.5
Plumage DetailsMales have a slate-gray back and head, a prominent black breast band, and a rich orange throat and belly. They also feature an orange eyebrow stripe and two orange wing bars. Females are similar but duller, with a browner wash to the gray and a less distinct breast band. Juveniles are mottled brown with a hint of the adult pattern.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its distinctive, ethereal, single, long, mournful whistle, often described as a shimmering or vibrating note that rises and falls in pitch, creating a haunting sound in the forest.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsconiferous forest, mixed forest, riparian areas, woodlands
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in dense coniferous and mixed forests of western North America, from Alaska south through British Columbia to northern California. Winters primarily along the Pacific Coast, extending inland to parts of the western U.S.
Identifying Featuresorange breast band, slate-gray or brownish-gray back, orange eyebrow stripe, two orange wing bars, dark facial stripe, scaly flanks
Description
The Varied Thrush is a striking medium-sized songbird of western North America, characterized by its bold orange and slate-gray plumage. It typically forages on the forest floor, often scratching through leaf litter for invertebrates, and is known for its shy demeanor.
