The Spotted Towhee is a large species of sparrow found in western parts of North America. The species is closely related to the Eastern Towhee; the two were once considered to be subspecies of the same species. There is a lot of variety in size and plumage in this species and there are at least 20 subspecies recognized by ornithologists.
Spotted Towhees nest low to the ground, either in bushes or directly on the ground. Their preferred breeding habitat includes chaparral scrubland.
Spotted Towhees feed on insects and plant material. They forage on the ground by scratching at leaf litter for crickets, beetles, caterpillars, and other insects, as well as seeds, fruits, and acorns.
Oregon 2020 Bird Population Survey
Researchers in Oregon are working on a huge survey of birds in the state: Oregon 2020. Data from field observations is being compiled to determine the abundance and distribution of Oregon's bird ... more