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What the California Thrasher sounds like



ID tip
The California thrasher is about 32 cm (13 in) long and weighs up to 90 g (3.2 oz); it is the largest thrasher. It has a distinctive long, decurved beak and a long tail. It is generally deep grayish brown above with olive tones on the tail. It has a grayish buff supercilium, a dark cheek pattern and eye line, and unlike most thrashers, has dark eyes. The underparts are mostly buffy to tawny brown, with the upper breast and flanks a smoky gray. The two subspecies differ only slightly. Voice: The California thrasher is recognized as a "striking and exuberant songster" known for its mimicking capabilities. It imitates many of the species that share its habitat, a trait that has been documented as reflecting a rich vocal repertoire, showcasing a wide range of vocal imitations from other species.
Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
When to see the California Thrasher
One bar for each month, and every month is filled: this bird is recorded here in all twelve. The wide bar is April, the month with the most records.
Where to see the California Thrasher
The map shades 2 countries with regular records. Everything unshaded has no records. Countries are listed below the map.
About the California Thrasher
The California thrasher is a large member of family Mimidae found primarily in chaparral habitat in California in the United States and Baja California in Mexico. It is the only species of the genus Toxostoma throughout most of its range.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
Easily confused with
Bendire's ThrasherToxostoma bendireiBecause of its similar coloration and structure to the curve-billed thrasher, the two birds are very easy to mistake for one another.
Side by side: Brown Thrasher vs California Thrasher · California Thrasher vs Curve-billed Thrasher · California Thrasher vs Long-billed Thrasher · California Thrasher vs Crissal Thrasher · Bendire's Thrasher vs California Thrasher
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