Fairly common in forest edges and hedgerows. The only thrasher in most of the region, it’s most likely to be confused with a poorly seen WOTH. Walks on the ground tossing things out of the way in search of food; you can often hear it rustling! Stays partially hidden in cover but will suddenly skip along to the top of a bush, belting out a sweet, warbling ramble, musical phrases given in 2’s and 3’s. In other seasons announces presence with a loud ‘chack,’ or a rising, somewhat weird, ‘ooweeee.’ Direct flight, usually for cover. ID: Large with a long tail and large downcurved bill. Large-eyed on a pale face, it always seems to be looking at you. Bold black streaks (not spots) to underparts. Upperparts rich brown, dull in the shade, with prominent black-and-white wing bars. Juv plumage held briefly; blander-faced with brighter cinnamon upperparts.