Varied Thrush
NameVaried Thrush
Common NameVaried Thrush
Scientific NameIxoreus naevius
FamilyTurdidae
Wingspan (cm)38
Length (cm)23
Weight (g)80
Plumage DetailsMales have a distinctive slate-gray back, head, and a prominent breast band, contrasting sharply with a rich orange belly, flanks, and a bright orange supercilium. The throat is orange with a dark malar stripe. Females are similar but generally duller, with browner tones and less distinct markings.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a distinctive, ethereal, single-note whistle, often described as a long, drawn-out, quavering note that can be repeated at different pitches, creating a haunting sound.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsconiferous forest, mixed forest, riparian areas, parks, gardens
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in coniferous and mixed forests of western North America, from Alaska south through British Columbia to northern California. Winters primarily in coastal California and the Pacific Northwest, though some populations are resident.
Identifying Featuresslate-gray and orange plumage, dark breast band, orange supercilium, ethereal whistling call, ground foraging behavior
Description
The Varied Thrush is a striking medium-sized songbird of western North America, known for its bold slate-gray and orange plumage. It typically forages on the forest floor, scratching through leaf litter for food, and is often heard before it is seen.
