Crissal Thrasher

Overview

The Crissal Thrasher (Toxostoma crissale) is a large thrasher found in the Southwestern United States and central Mexico. It is listed as a species of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Length of approximately 32 centimetres with a deeply curved bill.
• Dull yellow eyes and characteristic bright colouring between the tail and vent (the crissum), contrasting with the rest of its plumage.
• Song described by Roger Tory Peterson as sweeter and less spasmodic than that of other thrashers.

Habitat

This species inhabits desert streams, dense underbrush, mesquite thickets, willows, scrub oak, high-elevation manzanita, and canyon chaparral. Its range extends from western Texas, southern New Mexico, and southern Arizona to central Mexico, with isolated populations in extreme southwestern Utah and Nevada.

Diet

An omnivore, it feeds on insects, spiders, seeds, and fruits. The bird is mainly a ground feeder, using its long bill to probe for prey among the leaf litter, particularly under shrubs.

Did you know?

The Crissal Thrasher is the only species of thrasher known to lay eggs that lack spots. It rarely flies, preferring to walk or run across its territory and running for cover when disturbed.