The canyon towhee is a bird of the family Passerellidae. Until 1989, the canyon towhee and the California towhee were considered to be a single species which was called the brown towhee.
Region
Southwestern United States and Mexican Plateau
Typical Environment
Found from Arizona, New Mexico, and western Texas south through the highlands of northern and central Mexico. Prefers arid and semi-arid habitats with scattered shrubs, cactus, and open ground. Common in desert scrub, mesquite flats, oak-juniper foothills, riparian thickets, and edges of agricultural areas. Frequently occupies suburban neighborhoods and ranch yards where dense hedges or brush piles provide cover.
Altitude Range
400–3000 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A ground-oriented sparrow of the family Passerellidae, the canyon towhee often runs between bushes rather than flying. It was formerly lumped with the California towhee as the 'brown towhee' until split in 1989. Its distinctive double-scratch foraging style kicks leaf litter backward to uncover seeds and insects. It adapts well to desert towns and ranches if dense shrubs are available for cover.
Canyon towhee in Cochise County, Arizona
Notice the natural camouflage.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct flights between cover
Social Behavior
Usually in pairs or small family groups, maintaining year-round territories. Nests are placed low in shrubs, small trees, or cactus, built from grasses and twigs and lined with finer materials. Pairs often remain together across seasons, and adults are attentive to fledglings as they learn to forage.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a short, accelerating series of clear notes that can sound like a quick, rising trill. Calls include sharp, metallic chips and soft contact notes used between mates.
