The Cozumel thrasher is a bird from the mockingbird family (Mimidae), which is endemic to the island of Cozumel off the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico. It is believed to be the most critically endangered species of bird in Mexico – if it indeed still exists, which is probable but not certain.
Region
Yucatán Peninsula
Typical Environment
Restricted to Cozumel Island off the Yucatán Peninsula. It favors dense coastal scrub, semi-deciduous low forest, and second-growth thickets with abundant leaf litter. The species often uses forest edges, overgrown clearings, and brushy limestone terrain. It avoids open areas and relies on dense cover for foraging and nesting.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 30 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Endemic to Cozumel Island, this elusive thrasher may be Mexico’s most threatened bird and could be on the brink of extinction. Its name comes from its habit of vigorously ‘thrashing’ leaf litter to uncover prey. Populations crashed after severe hurricanes and ongoing habitat disturbance, and confirmed sightings have been extremely scarce since the early 2000s. If it survives, it likely persists at very low numbers in dense scrub.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low direct flights between cover
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs, especially during breeding. Nests are likely cup-shaped and placed low in dense shrubs or tangles. Pairs defend small territories and spend much time foraging quietly on the ground beneath cover.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rich, musical series of varied phrases with repeated notes, reminiscent of other thrashers and mockingbirds. Includes harsh scolds and chattering calls when alarmed, with occasional mimicry of other species’ notes.
