Canyon Towhee

Melozone fusca

CATO, CANT

Order: Passeriformes | Family: Emberizidae (Buntings and New World Sparrows)
Canyon Towhee 1

Bird Description

Uncommon in brushy habitat and rocky canyons, but often near humans. Usually low in bushes or scratching around on the ground. Quite happy to walk in the open; occurs near houses and can be quite tame. ID: Fairly large with long tail; crown feathers often raised. Buff around throat, but otherwise colder gray tones. Markings can be subtle but always look for chestnut cap and undertail coverts. Bold eyering, fine streaks bordering throat and spot in center of breast that is sometimes easy to miss. Call a ‘de-yup’ and variety of squeaks.

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