Thrashers
The California Thrasher (Toxostoma redivivum) inhabit chaparral habitat in California and Baja California, where they are common. Like most thrashers, the California Thrashers rarely fly in the open, but usually stay hidden in dense brush. Therefore, it is rarely seen.
Description
The California Thrasher is a large dull grey-brown thrasher, averaging 11 – 12 inches (28 – 33 cm) in length (including its long tail) and weighing around 85 grams (3 oz). Its beak is sickle-shaped.
The plumage is generally brown, except for the cinnamon under plumage and undertail (unlike the Crissal); its dark cheek pattern and eye-lines.
It has dark eyes, which differentiates it from most other thrashers.
Calls / Vocalizations
Their beautiful song consists of a long, sustained series of notes and phrases – some musical while others appear harsh g-leek. In the spring, its song can be heard throughout the chaparral in California.
Diet / Feeding
The California Thrasher mostly eats insects, spiders and other invertebrates; but also feeds on fruits, berries, acorns and seeds
Breeding / Nesting
The California Thrasher’s nest is usually situated in dense shrubbery.
Species Research by Sibylle Johnson
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