Crissal Thrasher

The Crissal Thrasher, Toxostoma crissale, is a sizable bird reaching a length of 32 centimeters, notable for its deeply curved bill and dull yellow eyes. Its plumage is predominantly brown, with a distinctive bright crissum—the area between the tail and vent—providing a striking contrast.

Identification Tips

When observing the Crissal Thrasher, look for its long, down-curved bill and the bright crissum that stands out against its otherwise muted feathers. Juveniles are paler and duller, with a browner undertail compared to adults.

Habitat

This thrasher favors arid environments, often found near desert streams amidst dense underbrush, mesquite thickets, willows, scrub oak, and high elevations in manzanita. It also inhabits low desert areas near canyon chaparral.

Distribution

The Crissal Thrasher's range extends from the Southwestern United States, including western Texas, southern New Mexico, southern Arizona, southeastern California, extreme southern Nevada, and extreme southwestern Utah, down to central Mexico.

Behaviour

Preferring to remain concealed, the Crissal Thrasher seldom flies in the open, opting instead to walk or run within its territory. It is known to retreat swiftly to cover when disturbed by potential predators.

Song & Calls

The song of the Crissal Thrasher has been described by bird expert Roger Tory Peterson as sweeter and less spasmodic than that of other thrashers, offering a melodious addition to its arid habitats.

Breeding

Nests are built within dense shrubs, usually under a large branch for protection from predators and the sun. Both male and female thrashers collaborate in constructing the cup-shaped nest, which is lined with fine vegetation. The species lays blue, unspotted eggs in clutches of 2 to 3, with an incubation period of about 2 weeks. Both parents share nesting duties, and the young fledge 11 to 13 days post-hatching.

Diet and Feeding

An omnivorous bird, the Crissal Thrasher feeds on insects, spiders, seeds, and fruits. It is primarily a ground feeder, using its long bill to probe the leaf litter for prey, especially under shrubs.

Conservation status

The Crissal Thrasher is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating that it does not face immediate threats to its survival.