The Varied Thrush is similar in behavior to the American Robin, but more elusive. Much of its foraging is done on the ground, usually in dense cover, although sometimes it forages on open lawns and roads. The Varied Thrush's song is a unique fuzzy, metallic whistle on different pitches.
Like other species of thrushes, Varied Thrushes eat a combination of insects and berries, shifting seasonally. In winter, they feed on berries, seeds, and acorns, in trees or shrubs or on the ground. In summer, they prey on insects and other invertebrates.This one seemed to enjoy the seed and fruit suet cake on the feeder.
Varied Thrushes are altitudinal migrants. They generally breed at middle to high elevations. They head down into the lowlands in winter. In late winter and early spring, they may wander to more open areas, and then in March and April they return to their breeding range. Winter range may depend on severity of weather.I enjoy watching these colorful visitors when they visit my garden.
10 comments:
What pretty, interesting birds! I'll have to keep my eye out for them when Spring comes. I've never heard of them before, but I've seen plenty of robins. Thanks for posting about them, great information!
They are pretty! I remember first seeing them a few years ago by our pond in the winter. They are jut occasional visitors here. I didn't really know much about them, great info!
Boy, that little bird needs to join me on my daily weightloss walks! But he sure is pretty.
Hugs, Gail
Beautiful!
What a beautiful bird!
Debbie
Great post and pictures! They are such pretty birds. Seattle Audubon Society has great info on their website, including recordings you can play of different bird songs. Here's a link to varied thrush info where you can play their haunting song: http://birdweb.org/birdweb/bird_details.aspx?id=355
Happy New Year!
it looks like the perfect round little bird a child would draw - i love it!
I don't get them too often our yard, but I have seen them on walks in some of our wooded parks. Great pics!
Jennifer, I just saw a Varied Thrush this morning. It must have found some yummy bugs because it hung around for quite awhile.
Really it is true watching birds amongst the flowers birds enjoying the pleasure of the garden is a very beautiful sight to watch. This enhances the beauty of the garden. I always enjoy the company of such visitors in my garden very often. Those pictures are cute.
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