Townsend's Solitaire

The Townsend's solitaire, Myadestes townsendi, presents itself as a medium-sized thrush, the sole representative of its kind in the northern reaches of America, extending down to Mexico. It is distinguished by its gray plumage, accented with a buffy wing stripe and the edges of its flight feathers. A white eye ring encircles its gaze, while a short, thick, blackish bill adorns its face. The tail, long and tapered when closed, is edged with a delicate white.

Identification Tips

Observers should note the Townsend's solitaire's upright perching stance, often high on a branch, where it may remain motionless for extended periods. Its length spans approximately 8–9.5 inches, with a wingspan of 14.5 inches, and it weighs in at around 1.2 oz. Juveniles display a mottled gray and white plumage, distinguishing them from the more uniform adults.

Habitat

The Townsend's solitaire favors montane woodlands, a preference that sees it range from southern Alaska through British Columbia and Alberta, down to northern Zacatecas in Mexico.

Distribution

In the winter months, this solitaire may descend to lower elevations in search of sustenance, venturing into the Great Plains, northern interior Mexico, and even desert oases.

Behaviour

This bird is known for its solitary nature, forming territories around productive juniper patches which it defends with vigor. It is one of the most specialized of all North American birds, with a winter diet almost entirely composed of juniper bush cones.

Song & Calls

The Townsend's solitaire's song is a symphony of loud, melodious flute-like phrases that rise and fall, interspersed with low, husky notes that follow no distinct pattern, and possess a slightly mechanical quality. Its call can be described as a squeaky eeek or a clear, soft whistle heeh.

Breeding

The nest of the Townsend's solitaire is akin to that of other solitaires: a finely constructed cup of plant material, situated on or near the ground. Typically, three or four grayish-white eggs adorned with brown dots or splotches are laid, with the markings concentrated at the larger end.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Townsend's solitaire primarily consists of berries and insects. However, during the winter, it almost exclusively feeds on the fleshy cones of the juniper bush.

Conservation status

The Townsend's solitaire is currently classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating a stable population without immediate threats to its survival.