Spotted Towhee
The spotted towhee is typically a ground feeder and will come to your backyard with the right kind of food. Learn how to attract the spotted towhee to your yard, and listen to its song.
Photo: Roland Jordahl
- Scientific Name: Pipilo maculatus.
- Family: Finch.
- Length: 8-1/2 inches.
- Wingspan: 10-1/2 inches.
- Distinctive Markings: Males have black head, back and tail with white belly, orange-red sides and multiple white wing marks. Females (like the one at right) are similar, but they have brown accents where males are black.
- Nest: Builds near or on ground. Lays three to four gray eggs speckled with brown.
- Song: Wide variety of songs, which typically feature high-pitched introductory notes followed by a trill. Also has a buzzy rapid trill.
- Habitat: Old pastures, woodland edges and brushy backyards.
- Diet: Insects, spiders, caterpillars, seeds, berries and small salamanders.
- Backyard Favorites: Oats or flaxseed scattered on the ground and suet.
Listen to this bird’s song