kids encyclopedia robot

California thrasher facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

The California thrasher (Toxostoma redivivum) is a large bird found mainly in California and Baja California. It lives in a special kind of bushy area called chaparral. This bird is quite big for a thrasher, and it's known for its long, curved beak. Even though it's common in many places, you might not see it often because it likes to stay hidden in thick bushes!


Quick facts for kids
California thrasher
Toxostoma redivivum -Morro Bay, California, USA-8.jpg
In California
Conservation status
Scientific classification
Genus:
Toxostoma
Species:
redivivum
Toxostoma redivivum species distribution map.svg
California thrasher range

About the California Thrasher

The California thrasher is the largest bird in its family, called "mimids." It's about 30 centimeters (12 inches) long and weighs around 85 grams (3 ounces).

What Does It Look Like?

This bird has a long, downward-curving beak, which is very unique! Its feathers are mostly brown, and its belly is a lighter, buffy color. It also has a dark pattern on its cheeks and a dark line near its eyes. Unlike many other thrashers, it has dark eyes.

CaliforniaThrashers
California thrashers during a mating ritual.

Where Does It Live?

This bird loves to live in chaparral habitats. These are areas with lots of dense shrubs and small trees. You'll find the California thrasher mostly in California and Baja California. It's the only type of thrasher in its group, Toxostoma, that lives in most of its home range.

What Does It Eat?

The California thrasher eats insects and other small creatures without backbones. It finds its food by tossing its beak into leaves and dirt on the ground.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Cuitlacoche californiano para niños

kids search engine
California thrasher Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.