Varied Thrush
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NameVaried Thrush
Common NameVaried Thrush
Scientific NameIxoreus naevius
FamilyTurdidae
Wingspan (cm)38
Length (cm)23
Weight (g)82.5
Plumage DetailsMales exhibit a slate-gray head, back, and upper breast, contrasted by a prominent black breast band and a vibrant orange supercilium and throat. The underparts are a rich orange, and the wings feature two orange wing bars and orange edging on the flight feathers. Females are similar but generally duller with browner tones and less distinct markings.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its distinctive, ethereal, single, long, mournful, and often tremulous whistle, which is repeated at varying pitches.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsconiferous forest, mixed forest, damp woodland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in coniferous forests of western North America, from Alaska south through British Columbia to northern California, and east to parts of Idaho and Montana. Winters primarily along the Pacific Coast, extending south into Mexico.
Identifying FeaturesDistinctive black breast band, Orange supercilium (eyebrow) and throat, Slate-gray and orange body plumage, Two orange wing bars, Mournful, whistling call
Description
The Varied Thrush is a striking medium-sized thrush found in western North America, known for its bold slate-gray and orange plumage. It typically forages on the forest floor, often in damp coniferous woodlands, searching for invertebrates and berries.
