Townsend's solitaire is a medium-sized thrush, the only solitaire native to America north of Mexico.
Region
Western North America
Typical Environment
Breeds in montane coniferous forests from Alaska and western Canada south through the Rockies and interior ranges of the western United States, extending locally into northern Mexico. Prefers open conifer stands, post-fire landscapes, subalpine slopes, and edges with scattered perches. In winter it moves downslope into pinyon-juniper woodlands, canyons, sagebrush steppe edges, and towns with ornamental berry trees. Occurs along the Pacific coast in winter and during movements, including low elevations with abundant fruit.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 3500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Townsend's solitaire is a medium-sized thrush, the only solitaire native to America north of Mexico. In winter it often defends a single juniper or patch of berry-laden shrubs with remarkable tenacity. Its song is a long, flutelike cascade delivered from exposed perches or during a buoyant display flight. The species often flicks its wings and flashes white outer tail feathers when taking off.
Townsend's solitaire feeding on juniper berries
Myadestes townsendi, Ashland, Oregon, June 2014
Townsend's solitaire by Louis Agassiz Fuertes
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short, direct flights with rapid wingbeats; occasional display flights with fluttering and glides
Social Behavior
Typically perches conspicuously on treetops, snags, or rocks, sallying out to catch insects. Pairs are monogamous in the breeding season and nest on or near the ground on banks, ledges, or under roots. Both parents feed the young. In winter individuals vigorously defend berry resources, especially fruiting junipers.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A long, fluty, ethereal series of clear, ringing notes and trills, often sustained for many seconds. Males sing from high perches or in a buoyant display flight. Calls include thin, high tseet notes and harsher chatters during territorial encounters.
