Hermit Thrush

Serene, multi-phrased series of clear, flute-like notes; each phrase begins low, rises quickly, and fades into an airy trill.

Breeds from Alaska and across boreal Canada south through the northern and western United States. Winters from the southern United States through Mexico and into Central America and the West Indies.

Moist mixed and coniferous forests, shady ravines, willow thickets, wooded riparian corridors, and mature suburban parks that feature dense understory and abundant leaf litter.

Strongly migratory. Returns to breeding territories from mid-April to late May; southbound migration August–October. Over-wintering birds defend quiet, well-vegetated territories.

A shy, medium-sized thrush famous for its exquisitely fluted, ethereal song. Warm olive-brown upperparts contrast with a richer reddish-brown tail that is frequently flicked upward. Pale face with a thin, crisp white eyering and a whitish breast heavily marked with dark, smudged spots.