Canyon towhee

Appearance

Its skulking habits and nondescript appearance mean that it is not one of the better known birds. It is 19 to 25 cm long and plump, and has a noticeably long tail, at 8.2 to 11 cm . This species weighs from 36.5 to 67 g , though on average weigh only around 45 g . Among standard measurements, the wing chord is 8.2 to 10.1 cm , the bill is 1.4 to 1.7 cm and the tarsus is 2.3 to 2.7 cm . It is earthy brown in colour, with somewhat lighter underparts and a somewhat darker head with a rufous cap ; there is also a slightly reddish area beneath the tail. There is little sexual dimorphism.

Distribution

The towhee is native to lower-lying areas from Arizona, southern Colorado, and western Texas south to northwestern Oaxaca, Mexico, mostly avoiding the coasts. Its natural habitat is brush or chaparral.

Behavior

The towhee feeds on the ground or in low scrub rather than in the tree canopy. Near human habitation, it is often seen in parking lots, where it feeds on insects on the cars' grilles and takes cover under the cars when disturbed.

Habitat

The towhee is native to lower-lying areas from Arizona, southern Colorado, and western Texas south to northwestern Oaxaca, Mexico, mostly avoiding the coasts. Its natural habitat is brush or chaparral.