When it comes to towhees, two common species in North America are the Spotted Towhee and Eastern Towhee. They are similar in many ways, but they also have some distinct differences. In this article, we will compare and contrast these two birds in terms of their physical appearance, habitat, behavior, and more.
Physical Appearance
The Spotted Towhee and Eastern Towhee have similar body shapes and sizes, but their coloration is different. The Spotted Towhee has a black head, wings, and tail, with white spots on its back and wings. It also has rusty-red sides and a white belly. The Eastern Towhee, on the other hand, has a black head, back, and tail, with rusty-red sides and a white belly. It also has white feathers on its wings that are visible in flight.
Habitat
The Spotted Towhee is primarily found in the western part of North America, from southern Alaska to Baja California. It prefers brushy areas, such as chaparral, open woodlands, and forest edges. The Eastern Towhee, as the name suggests, is found in the eastern part of North America, from the Great Plains to the Atlantic Coast. It prefers brushy habitats, including thickets, hedgerows, and forest edges.
Behavior
Both the Spotted Towhee and Eastern Towhee are ground-dwelling birds that hop and scratch on the forest floor in search of food. They are also known to take short flights from low perches to the ground. However, the Eastern Towhee is more likely to scratch the ground with both feet simultaneously, while the Spotted Towhee tends to use one foot at a time.
Diet
Both towhees are omnivorous and have a similar diet. They feed on a variety of seeds, insects, and fruits. Insects make up a larger portion of their diet during the breeding season when they need extra protein for egg-laying and chick-rearing.
Reproduction
The breeding season for towhees typically begins in late March and lasts through August. Both species build their nests on or near the ground, using leaves, twigs, and grass. The female lays 3-5 eggs, which she incubates for 12-14 days. The young birds leave the nest after 9-11 days but remain with their parents for several weeks, being fed by both adults.
Vocalizations
The Spotted Towhee and Eastern Towhee have distinctive vocalizations. The Spotted Towhee’s song is a series of short, clear whistles, often described as «drink-your-tea.» The Eastern Towhee’s song is a musical «drink-your-tea» with a trill at the end. Both species also have a distinctive call note, a sharp «tink» or «chink.»
Migration
The Spotted Towhee is a resident bird, meaning it stays in its breeding range year-round. The Eastern Towhee, on the other hand, is a partial migrant. Some birds will migrate to the southern United States and Mexico during the winter, while others will remain in their breeding range throughout the year.
Threats and Conservation
Both towhee species face similar threats, including habitat loss and fragmentation, predation by domestic and feral cats, and collisions with buildings and vehicles. However, neither species is currently listed as threatened or endangered by any conservation agency
Conclusion
In summary, while the Spotted Towhee and Eastern Towhee are similar in many ways, they also have some distinct differences in terms of their physical appearance, habitat, behavior, and more. Understanding these differences can help birdwatchers and enthusiasts identify and appreciate these two beautiful species.
FAQs
How do I distinguish between a Spotted Towhee and Eastern Towhee?
Look for differences in coloration, with the Spotted Towhee having rusty-red sides and white spots on its back and wings, and the Eastern Towhee having a white wing patch and rusty-red sides.
What is the primary diet of towhees?
Towhees are omnivorous and feed on a variety of seeds, insects, and fruits, with insects making up a larger portion of their diet during the breeding season.
Where can I find Spotted Towhees and Eastern Towhees?
Spotted Towhees are primarily found in the western part of North America, while Eastern Towhees are found in the eastern part of North America.
Do towhees migrate?
Spotted Towhees are resident birds, while Eastern Towhees are partial migrants, with some birds migrating south for the winter.
Are towhees endangered?
Neither the Spotted Towhee nor the Eastern Towhee are currently listed as threatened or endangered by any conservation agency, but they do face threats such as habitat loss and fragmentation, predation by domestic and feral cats, and collisions with buildings and vehicles.