Gray-cheeked Thrush

The gray-cheeked thrush is a small bird species that belongs to the thrush family. The scientific name for this species is Catharus minimus. This bird has a distinct appearance and many interesting characteristics.

Basic Description:
The gray-cheeked thrush measures about 15 centimeters in length, with an average weight of 24 grams. As its name suggests, it has gray cheeks and a brownish-gray upper body. Its underparts are white with dark spots on the breast and sides. This bird also has white eye-rings, pink legs, and a relatively long tail.

Where To Find This Bird:
Gray-cheeked thrushes are found in North America during their breeding season from Alaska across Canada to Newfoundland; they then migrate southward through Central America into South America, wintering primarily in Brazil but also throughout much of Amazonia east of the Andes Mountains, as well as nonbreeding areas farther west along Ecuador’s coast and southward through Peru.

Habitat:
They inhabit boreal forests during their breeding season and prefer dense vegetation like shrubs or young trees protect their nests while raising young ones. During migration or wintering periods also found at forest edges or open woodlands where they have access to low-lying vegetation allowing them to feed easily.

Food:
The gray-cheeked thrush feeds on insects such as beetles, ants, flies caterpillars earthworms etc., more fruit when available during migratory passages throughout Central America including blueberries cranberries dogwood berries elderberries raspberries etc.). They can be seen foraging actively on ground-level particularly around bushes looking for prey hiding beneath plant debris littering forest floors.

Cool Facts:
• The Gray-cheeked Thrush was first described by Alexander Wilson – one of the founding fathers ornithology
• Notoriously difficult spot once outside breeding grounds
• Gray-cheeks establish lifelong monogamous relationships with their partners
• Their song is a beautiful flute-like tune, often heard in early morning or evening
• Gray-cheeked Thrushes are considered to be one of the most widespread migratory thrush species

In conclusion, if you’re out bird watching and happen to spot this elusive species while hiking through boreal forests, it’s definitely worth taking a moment to observe its fascinating behavior. Though they may not be as commonly seen as other birds, gray-cheeked thrushes have unique characteristics and habits that make them an interesting addition to any birder’s list.