Bird Description

Fairly common breeder in parks, gardens, forest edges, open areas near trees.. Its mechanical dry trill is a good song to learn. Changes behavior in winter. Forms flocks, often with similar CCSP, SCJU, EABL, PIWA, and other species. Usually feeds on the ground but looks for cover in trees. In flight, tail is flared at the tip and distinctly forked. ID: Different plumages and widespread distribution make this a good bird to learn well. Fairly long-tailed and stocky, it is thick-necked but small-headed with a flat crown. Strong contrast in upperpart markings. Bill fairly small and pointed. Importantly, all plumages have black lores and gray rump. Underparts have grayer tones. Ad br: bold chestnut cap and black eyeline. Ad nonbr: browner cheeks with reduced eyeline, streaked cap with rufous, nape grayer. 1st-w: similar to ad nonbr but has duller brown cap and buffier underparts. Juv (late summer): streaked breast.