Veery Identification

The Four Keys to ID

• Size & Shape

  Veeries are medium-sized thrushes—smaller than an American Robin but similar in shape. They have a plump body, round head, a straight, narrow bill, and fairly long wings and legs.

  Relative Size

  Smaller than an American Robin; larger than a Song Sparrow

  between sparrow and robin

  Measurements

  • Both Sexes
  • • Length: 6.7-7.1 in (17-18 cm)
    • Weight: 1.0-1.9 oz (28-54 g)
    • Wingspan: 11.0-11.4 in (28-29 cm)
• Color Pattern

  Most Veeries are uniformly bright cinnamon-brown above with indistinct spotting on the chest and pale underparts (see Regional Differences for exceptions). The throat is white with a buffy-orange cast.

• Behavior

  Veeries are inconspicuous forest birds except for their beautiful downward-spiraling song, which they give often in late spring and summer, especially at dusk and dawn. They forage on the ground and logs for invertebrate prey, somewhat in the manner of American Robin or Hermit Thrush, peering around, then moving a short distance and repeating the process. You may also hear their distinctive, scolding call note, a harsh ‘veerr’ usually given from a hidden nook.

• Habitat

  Veeries breed in rich deciduous woodland and forest with well-developed understory across northern North America. Wintering birds select the same habitat structure in the tropics. On migration, you might encounter the species in nearly any woodlot or other treed habitat.