Measurements
Both Sexes
- Length
- 6.3–6.7 in
16–17 cm - Weight
- 0.9–1.1 oz
26–30 g
Other Names
- Grive de Bicknell (French)
- Zorzal migratorio, Tordo de Bicknell (Spanish)
Cool Facts
- Bicknell's Thrush has an unusual mating system. Both males and females mate with different partners. Each nest has young from different males, and males may have young in several nests. More than one male feeds at most nests.
- Males do not hold strict territories, and several different males may sing from the same area within one hour.
Habitat
Forest
- Breeds in montane fir and spruce forests, usually associated with recently disturbed areas.
- Winters in broadleaf montane forests.
Food
Insects
Insects and other arthropods, fruit.
Nesting
Nesting Facts
- Clutch Size
- 3–4 eggs
- Egg Description
- Bluish green with light brown speckling.
- Condition at Hatching
- Naked and helpless.
Nest Description
Open cup of twigs and moss in small tree.
Nest Placement
Shrub
Behavior
Ground Forager
Conservation
Vulnerable
Population data are difficult to gather, but because of the small range and restricted habitat, it is considered a high conservation priority. Listed on the Audubon Watchlist
Credits
- Rimmer, C. C., K. P. McFarland, W. G. Ellison, and J. E Goetz. Bicknell's Thrush (Catharus bicknelli). In The Birds of North America, No. 592 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America, Inc., Philadelphia, PA.