Abert's towhee is a bird of the family Passerellidae, native to a small range in southwestern North America, generally the lower Colorado River and Gila River watersheds, nearly endemic to Arizona, but also present in small parts of California, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, and Sonora in Mexico. The name of this bird commemorates the American ornithologist James William Abert (1820–1897).
Region
Southwestern United States and Sonora, Mexico
Typical Environment
Found primarily along the lower Colorado and Gila River watersheds in Arizona, with smaller populations in adjacent parts of California, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, and into Sonora, Mexico. Prefers dense desert riparian thickets, mesquite bosques, tamarisk and willow tangles, and vegetated washes. Frequently uses urban and suburban areas that mimic natural thickets, such as dense hedges and brushy parks near water. It keeps close to cover and rarely ventures far into open ground.
Altitude Range
0–1600 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Abert's towhee is a ground-foraging sparrow of desert riparian thickets, often staying low and hidden in dense brush. It performs a distinctive double-scratch with both feet to uncover seeds and insects. The species has expanded locally into suburban areas with dense landscaping, especially near water. Its name honors American ornithologist James William Abert.
Temperament
skulking and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low to the ground
Social Behavior
Typically found in pairs or small family groups that maintain year-round territories. Nests are placed low in dense shrubs or tangles, where the female lays 2–4 eggs. Pairs often remain together across seasons and defend dense cover aggressively.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a simple, accelerating series of clear notes that may trail off into a short trill. Calls are sharp, metallic chinks and thin squeaks given from cover or low perches.
