Hermit Thrush facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hermit Thrush |
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Catharus
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C. guttatus
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| Catharus guttatus |
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The Hermit Thrush (Catharus guttatus) is a common and beautiful bird found across Canada, the United States, and Mexico. This small bird measures about 15 to 17 centimeters (6 to 7 inches) long. It's known for its lovely brown feathers and a special reddish tail. Underneath, its feathers are white with dark spots, and it has pink legs. The Hermit Thrush is so special that it's even the state bird of Vermont!
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The Hermit Thrush's Amazing Song
The song of the Hermit Thrush is truly one of nature's wonders. Many people describe it as the "finest sound in nature." Imagine a magical, flute-like tune that sounds almost like it's from another world! The song starts with a clear note, then flows into several musical phrases that gently go down in pitch. These phrases are repeated at different pitches, creating a beautiful, echoing sound.
This bird often sings from a high spot, like the top of a tree. What's even more amazing is that the notes in its song are related by simple math ratios, much like the music humans create. This makes its song unique compared to many other bird songs that scientists have studied.
Where Hermit Thrushes Live
Hermit Thrushes are found in many different places across North America. They live in forests and woodlands, from the cool regions of Canada and Alaska down to the warmer parts of the United States and Mexico. You might spot them in places like the Ocala National Forest in Florida or even in big cities like New York City's Prospect Park. They are also common in the Sierra Nevada mountains and across the northeastern and northwestern parts of the U.S.
Family and Relatives
The Hermit Thrush belongs to the thrush family, which includes many other songbirds. It's closely related to another bird called the Mexican Russet Nightingale-thrush. Both birds share similar features and are known for their beautiful songs.
Images for kids
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An adult Hermit Thrush in New York City, showing its reddish tail
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A Hermit Thrush in Ocala National Forest, Florida, 2008
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See also
In Spanish: Zorzal ermitaño para niños
