The Bermuda towhee is an extinct bird of the towhee genus Pipilo that was endemic to Bermuda.
Region
Western North Atlantic (Bermuda)
Typical Environment
Endemic to the low-elevation limestone islands of Bermuda, where native cedar and palmetto woodlands once dominated. It would have occupied dense scrub, forest edges, and thickets with ample leaf litter. Ground cover and shrubby understory offered foraging opportunities and concealment. Coastal dune scrub and sheltered valleys likely provided additional habitat. With extensive habitat alteration after colonization, these environments were drastically reduced.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 80 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Bermuda towhee was an extinct ground-foraging sparrow-like bird in the genus Pipilo, known only from Bermuda. It likely vanished after human settlement due to habitat loss and introduced predators such as rats, cats, and pigs. Like other towhees, it probably scratched through leaf litter with both feet to uncover food. Its existence is documented from subfossil remains rather than historical observations.
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Likely nested low in dense vegetation or on the ground, as is typical for towhees. Pairs would have defended small territories during the breeding season, with the female handling most incubation. Outside breeding, individuals probably remained fairly solitary or in loose associations in suitable thickets.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
No recordings exist. As a towhee, it likely gave sharp call notes and simple, trilled songs used for territory defense and mate attraction.
Plumage
unknown
Diet
An omnivore that likely fed on seeds, small fruits, and a variety of invertebrates such as beetles, ants, and spiders. It would have scratched through leaf litter to expose hidden prey and fallen seeds. Seasonal availability of berries and seeds would have supplemented its diet. Occasional tender shoots or buds may also have been taken.
Preferred Environment
Foraged primarily on the ground in dense scrub, palmetto and cedar understory, and along forest edges. It favored areas with deep leaf litter and protective cover, avoiding open ground away from shelter.
