Spotted Towhee

About the Spotted Towhee
Also known as: Rufous-sided Towhee, Arctic Towhee
Spotted Towhee
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.
Find cute products & gifts with our Birdorable Spotted Towhee

Details & Statistics

International Names

Cute gifts with this bird

Related Articles

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 species. The study in part uses data collected by citizen scientists who bird the state and...  Read more »

2015 Bonanza Bird #20: Spotted Towhee

Spotted Towhees are large sparrows found in western parts of North America. They are closely related to the Eastern Towhee. In fact, the Eastern Towhee and Spotted Towhee were once considered to be subspecies of a single species: the Rufous-sided Towhee....  Read more »