Townsend's Solitaire
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The Townsend's Solitaire (Myadestes townsendi) is a medium-sized thrush, and the solitaire native to North America. It ranges from British Columbia and Alberta south to northern Mexico, preferring montane woodlands. During winter months, the solitaire may move to lower elevations in search of food, and may even be found in desert oases. Its general range, however, stays the same, as it is otherwise nonmigratory.
The Townsend's Solitaire reaches a length of approximately 8-9.5 inches, and has a short, thick bill, a white eye ring, and dark gray plumage, with a buffy wing stripe. Though superficially similar in plumage to the Northern Mockingbird, its shape, size, and behavior are not too similar. It feeds primarily on fruit and insects.
The name of this bird commemorates ornithologist John Kirk Townsend.
References
- BirdLife International (2004). [Myadestes townsendi]. 2006 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. IUCN 2006. Retrieved on 12 May 2006. Database entry includes justification for why this species is of least concern
- [Myadestes townsendi (TSN 179824)]. Integrated Taxonomic Information System. Accessed on 4 February 2006.
External links
- [Townsend's Solitaire] at USGS
- [Townsend's Solitaire] at eNature
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