Spotted Towhee (Pipilo maculatis). This specie is very closely related to the Eastern Towhee, according to my Sibley’s guide. Until recently they were considered one single species. They’re both found in dense brush, where they scratch noisily through dead leaves, but are difficult to see. Stocky, long-tailed, dark head and rufous flanks. Sometimes it will appear to have a crest. I took the two following photos at Cedar Gap Farm, near Abilene, Texas.
I hope you enjoy the photos. Click on either one to see an enlargement. Here are the listings for the birds that were seen at our monthly birding tour this morning at San Angelo State Park, San Angelo, Texas.
Saturday, January 8, 2011 Total 27 species
Northern Shoveler 10
Green-winged Teal 10
American White Pelican 12
Great Blue Heron 3
Black Vulture 1
Northern Harrier 1
Red-tailed Hawk 2
Killdeer 2
Least Sandpiper 12
Long-billed Dowitcher 6
Ring-billed Gull 200
Herring Gull 1
White-winged Dove 4
Mourning Dove 2
Golden-fronted Woodpecker 2
Black-crested Titmouse 3
Verdin 1
Bewick’s Wren 2
Northern Mockingbird 10
Curve-billed Thrasher 2
White-crowned Sparrow 12
Pyrrhuloxia 4
Red-winged Blackbird 50
Western Meadowlark 6
Brown-headed Cowbird 3
House Finch 8
House Sparrow 6
Happy Birding!!
Love those two images Bob, the second one more for the DoF, nice and sharp!
it is wonderful to see the different species of birds from around the world thank you for sharing
You’re indeed welcome, Coralie. Thank you for writing,
Bob
They’re both beautiful. I especially love the energy in the second one.
Cindy,
Thanks so much for your most kind words, for commenting on this post and all of the previous posts. You are spoiling me. I will try not to get a swelled head. 🙂
Bob
Interesting little bird and as usual great photos.
Thanks, Francis, I appreciate it.
Bob
What a wonderful photo of the first Spotted Towhee. The color and composition work well together!
Thanks a bunch, Maria.
That’s ome smart little burd! Great shots! I like the first in particular.
Thanks, Kai. They are kinda cute and feisty.
Bob
Gorgeous little bird and great shots Bob!
Thanks, Ennivea. I appreciate your compliments.
Bob
That’s one cool lookin’ bird. Are they native to Texas or are they snowbirds? Pun intended. 🙂
They are here from late August until the end of April. I would guess that they go further north for the summer. If they’re snowbirds, then they get here early to get the best parking spots. 🙂
Bob