Curve-billed Thrasher

The Curve-billed Thrasher (Toxostoma curvirostre) is a medium-sized bird, a member of the Mimidae family, known for its distinctive sickle-shaped bill. It has a compact body with a large head, short wings, and a long tail, though not as elongated as those of other thrashers. The plumage is primarily grey-brown with circular brown-gray spots on the chest. Adult eyes are typically orange, shifting to golden with age, while juveniles exhibit less vibrant eye colors and lack the neatness of adult plumage.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Curve-billed Thrasher, look for its long tail, short wings, and notably curved bill, which is almost as long as the head is wide and brownish-black in color. The chest spots and the degree of curvature on the bill can help distinguish it from similar species. Juveniles can be identified by their unkempt abdominal feathers and the absence of pale tips on their rectrices.

Habitat

This thrasher is commonly found in desert regions, particularly where cholla and saguaro cacti, ocotillo, mesquites, palo verde, and creosote bushes are abundant. It can also inhabit woodland edges, piñon, and dry desert bushland. Proximity to human habitation is not a deterrent if there is sufficient desert vegetation and feeders available.

Distribution

The Curve-billed Thrasher is native to most of Mexico and the deserts of the southwestern United States. It is non-migratory and is the most common desert thrasher within its range. Its habitat spans from Arizona's Sonoran Desert across to west Texas and from the Sonoran-Chihuahuan Deserts south through the Mexican Plateau.

Behaviour

This thrasher is known for its rapid movement from cover to cover and its tendency to forage on the ground. It is not particularly shy and can be aggressive in defending its territory or food sources. The bird is also known for its ability to mimic the calls of other species, though not as extensively as other mimids.

Song & Calls

The Curve-billed Thrasher has a distinctive voice, with an abrupt and brash "whit-wheet" call. Its songs are melodious and varied, often repeated two or three times in succession, with some phrases being nasal and buzzy. Its extensive vocal repertoire has earned it the name "cuicacoche" or songbird in Mexico.

Breeding

Breeding season for the Curve-billed Thrasher begins in February, peaking between March and May, with fledglings recorded as late as August. Nests are typically built in conspicuous locations, with a preference for cholla cacti. Both sexes participate in nest building, which can range from a few days to several weeks. The nests are deep cups or flat with a depression, lined with smooth materials.

Similar Species

The Curve-billed Thrasher can be confused with Bendire's Thrasher due to similar coloration. However, differences in bill coloration, curvature, and eye color can aid in distinguishing the two. The Curve-billed Thrasher's spots on the chest are generally larger and rounder, and it is more likely to inhabit suburban areas.

Diet and Feeding

An omnivore, the Curve-billed Thrasher's diet includes invertebrates, vegetable matter, and fruits from various plants. It is a ground feeder, digging holes to search for food, and also consumes nectar from saguaro blossoms, serving as a pollinator in the process.

Conservation status

Despite a declining population, the Curve-billed Thrasher is currently rated as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).