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.