The hermit thrush is a medium-sized North American thrush.
Region
North America and Central America
Typical Environment
Breeds across boreal Canada, Alaska, and the northern and western United States, especially in coniferous and mixed forests. In winter it moves to the southern United States, Mexico, and parts of Central America. Prefers dense understory and forest edges, often near riparian corridors. Commonly forages on the forest floor among leaf litter but will also use brushy clearings. During migration it can appear in parks and wooded suburban areas.
Altitude Range
0–3500 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The hermit thrush is a medium-sized North American thrush famed for its ethereal, flute-like song with clear, bell-like phrases. It often flicks its wings and raises its warm rufous tail, which contrasts with its browner back. It is the state bird of Vermont and breeds in boreal and montane forests, wintering farther south.
Temperament
solitary and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct flights between perches
Social Behavior
Generally solitary outside the breeding pair and maintains well-defined territories. The female builds a cup nest on or near the ground or low in shrubs and incubates the eggs. The male sings persistently to defend territory; both parents feed the nestlings.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
A pure, flute-like series of ethereal phrases, each introduced by a clear whistle and then expanding into harmonically rich, descending notes. Phrases are delivered from different pitch centers, giving a ventriloquial, echoing quality. Most conspicuous at dawn and dusk.
Plumage
Brown to olive-brown upperparts with a contrasting warm rufous tail; whitish underparts with bold, dark spots on the breast and sides; smooth, sleek feathering.
Diet
Feeds primarily on insects and other invertebrates such as beetles, caterpillars, ants, spiders, and earthworms. In fall and winter it adds substantial fruit and berries including dogwood, holly, elderberry, and juniper. Occasionally gleans small prey from low foliage and will flip leaves to expose hidden invertebrates.
Preferred Environment
Forages on the forest floor in leaf litter within coniferous and mixed woodlands, especially where there is dense understory. Also uses edges, riparian thickets, and brushy clearings, and in winter frequents fruiting shrubs.
