Townsend's Solitaire

Townsend Solitaire perched on a branch

Kadi Franson/NPS

Myadestes townsendi

Weight: 1.1-1.2 oz (30-35 g)
Length: 7.9-8.7 in (20-22 cm)
Wingspan: 13.0-14.6 in (33-37 cm)

 

Habitat

Open pine, fir, and spruce forests in mountainous regions.

Diet

Insects and berries.

Identification

A distinctive feature of the Townsend Solitaire is its white eyering. Gray bird with a long tail, short bill, rounded head, and upright posture.

Behavior

The Townsend solitaire is commonly found perching on branches during all times of the year singing its beautiful songs, or flying back and forth catching insects. During the winter, the Townsend Solitaire moves to lower elevations in search of juniper berries.

Conservation

Current numbers appear to be stable.

When and Where to See at Bryce

Commonly seen in our open pine forests. Listen for their complex finchlike song that lasts up to a minute, as well as its short squeaky eeek call.

Further Reading

Townsend's Solitaire | Audubon Field Guide

Townsend's Solitaire Identification, All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology