Townsend's Solitaire

Turidae: Thrush and Bluebirds American Robin Hermit Thrush Varied Thrush Western Bluebird Wood Thrush Types of Birds

The Townsend's Solitaire (Myadestes townsendi) is a West Coast member of the Turidae family and the only member of the Myadestes genus found in the United States.

They are fairly common birds in forested mountain areas, with gray feathers that blend easily into most tree branch backgrounds.

With the exception of gray wings, they look very similar to female Mountain Bluebirds or even a Northern Mockingbird. The picture shows a juvenile, with spots covering the body. The white eye ring is a good field identification clue for the species.

Like other members of the Turidae family, they feed on insects and berries, and is particularly fond of juniper berries.

© 2008 Patricia A. Michaels