What does the Spotted Towhee song sound like?

Pipilo maculatus

Song Common

Play the real Spotted Towhee song, the "ch’reeeeeee", and learn what to listen for.

“ch’reeeeeee”

What the Spotted Towhee song sounds like

A rapid, dry trill of 1–3 seconds, descending slightly and delivered from an elevated perch; northern birds average faster tempo than coastal populations.

“ch’reeeeeee”

Birders often file this one under Buzzy Trill.

How to find the bird singing it

Brushy edges, chaparral, woodland understory, overgrown fields and suburban shrubbery; prefers dense tangles where it can forage on the ground but also perch up to sing.

Rufous Flanks: Deep chestnut sides contrast with white belly and dark upperparts.
White-spotted Back and Wings: Rows of neat white spots and bars on otherwise black (male) or brown (female) upperparts.
Red Eye: Adults show a striking red iris that stands out in shaded brush.

When you'll hear it

Breeding

Territories in shrubby habitats; males deliver rapid trilled songs from exposed perches.

Migration

Northern birds travel at night, stopping in similar brushy habitat to refuel.

Winter

Often forms loose flocks with sparrows; frequents backyard feeders for seed mixes.

Don’t confuse it with

Birds whose song gets mistaken for this one. Play them back to back.

Eastern Towhee

Lacks white spots on back and wings—plainer black or brown upperparts.

Spotted Towhee song FAQ

What does a Spotted Towhee song sound like?

A rapid, dry trill of 1–3 seconds, descending slightly and delivered from an elevated perch; northern birds average faster tempo than coastal populations. Birders write it as "ch’reeeeeee".

How do I tell a Spotted Towhee from a Eastern Towhee by ear?

Eastern Towhee: Lacks white spots on back and wings—plainer black or brown upperparts.; Song a slower 'drink-your-teeea', not as long buzzy trill..

When is the best time to hear the Spotted Towhee song?

Begins singing on territory as early as February in milder areas, nests April–July with 1–3 broods; migratory birds move August–October southward, returning March–April.

More Spotted Towhee sounds

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