Banner Photo by Ann Kramer

Featured Bird

MEET THE VARIED THRUSH (Ixoreus naevius) – by Jeff Sinker

At home in the dense moist forests of the Pacific Northwest and along the west coast from southern California to Alaska, the Varied Thrush might likely be heard before it is seen. The haunting, simple single-note song can be the first clue this shy thrush is nearby. Stocky, with a rather large and rounded head, long legs and a straight bill, the male sports a dark blue-gray back with an orange breast, black breastband and orange stripe above the eyes. Females show the same patterns but are lighter in color.

Preferring, or even requiring, forest tracts larger than 40 acres, these thrushes feed mostly on insects while breeding and raising their young. During the rest of the year, fruits, seeds and nuts form the basis of their diet. Primarily feeding on the ground, this bird will clear a spot by tossing leaf litter to the side with its bill to look for food. Varied Thrushes also visit parks, gardens and backyard feeders during winter months. Feeders offering suet, seeds and nuts also attract them.

Pairs are thought to be monogamous during breeding season. Females select the nest site, construct the nest and a typical clutch size is 1-6 eggs. A successful pair can raise 1-2 broods per season.

According to the North American Breeding Bird Survey, Partners in Flight, the Varied Thrush has experienced a cumulative decline of 32% from 1966-2019. Forest fragmentation and logging negatively impact this species; however, on a positive note, they may benefit from habitats that are protected for the Northern Spotted Owl.

Learn more: www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Varied_Thrush
Photo credit: www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Varied_Thrush by Graham Gerdeman/Macaulay Library

Range Map: www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Varied_Thrush