- Hylocichla mustelina
Description
The Wood Thrush is declining in many areas in North America due to forest fragmentation. The species is being studied in Cornell’s project, Birds in Forested Landscapes. It is also listed on the Audubon’s Watchlist.
Identification
Adult:19-21 cm (7-8"); similar to American Robin in shape; chestnut-brown upper-parts; white belly with large, dark brown spots from the neck reaching to the belly; white ring around dark eye; and pink legs. Juvenile has streaks on back and wings and lighter spots than adult on belly
Range
In the summer, the Wood Thrush breeds in Eastern North America. In the winter, it lives in the lowlands of Central America.
Habitat
Found in deciduous and mixed forests, often near water.
Behavior
The Wood Thrush forages in forest leaf litter looking for many different species of insects and beetles. Also eats fruit and berries.
Song
Ethereal, flutelike song, “Ee-oh-lay” repeated several times, with slight variations. Also calls a rapid “pit-pit-pit” and a nocturnal flight call, "heeh."
