Varied Thrush

Ixoreus naevius

The Varied Thrush is normally a bird of the Pacific Northwest, western Canada, and Alaska.  In winter, however, some birds wander widely, reaching South Dakota and occasionally even reaching the East Coast of the U.S.  They generally spend the majority of their time on the ground, and can be difficult to spot as they forage through dense forest undergrowth.  

Habitat: Generally breeds in wet, dense coniferous forest near the coast.  During migration and in the winter, still prefers dense coniferous forest, but can be found in other areas with thick undergrowth.

Diet: Primarily feeds on insects and spiders in the summer, along with earthworms and snails.  Primarily feeds on fruit and berries in the winter, along with some seeds.

Behavior: Often forages on the ground, walking or hopping along in its search for food, sometimes using its bill to look under leaves and other debris.  Will also forage up in the foliage of trees and shrubs.

Breeding: Non-breeder in South Dakota

Song: Long breathy whistled melody

Migration: Summers from the Pacific Northwest of the U.S., up through western Canada and most of Alaska.  Usually winters near the western coast of Canada or the western tier of U.S. states, although some wander widely in the winter and may even reach the east coast of the United States.

Similar Species: American Robin

Feeders: Will sometimes attend feeders for fruit and some seeds.

Conservation Status: Widespread and fairly common throughout its range.

Further Information: 1) USGS Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter, Varied Thrush

2) Cornell Lab of Ornithology - Varied Thrush

3) eNature.com - Varied Thrush

Photo Information: November 11, 2002 -- Pierre -- Doug Backlund