Swainson's Thrush

Catharus ustulatus

A common migrant through the state, Swainson's Thrushes are often found in mixed flocks with other similar thrushes.  They also are active breeders in the Black Hills.  Generally a shy bird, Swainson's Thrushes are sometimes easier to hear than to see.

Habitat: Nearly any kind of wooded habitat during migration and in the winter.  Prefers conifer or mixed-forest during the breeding season.

Diet: Mostly insects and berries.

Behavior: Often foraging on the ground, walking or hopping a short distance, pausing and looking, before moving on again.  Also forages quite often in the foliage and branches of trees and shrubs, and may occasionally fly out from an observation perch to capture passing insects in mid-air.

Nesting: June and July

Breeding Map: Breeding Bird Survey map

Song: Swainson's Thrush Song

Migration: Summers throughout much of Canada, the Great Lakes region, the Northeastern U.S., and much of the Western U.S.  Winters in southern Mexico and points south.

Similar Species: Veery, Hermit Thrush, Wood Thrush, Gray-cheeked Thrush

Conservation Status: Some evidence of local declines, but generally stable.

Further Information: 1) Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter, Swainson's Thrush

2) Cornell Lab of Ornithology - Swainson's Thrush

3) eNature.com -- Swainson's Thrush

Photo Information: May 17th, 2011 - Minnehaha County, South Dakota - Terry Sohl

Additional Photos: Click on the image chips or text links below for additional, higher-resolution Swainson's Thrush photos.