Varied Thrush vs Bicknell's Thrush

In short

Varied Thrush and Bicknell's Thrush can be distinguished by their plumage and habitat preferences. Varied Thrush has a striking orange and black pattern, while Bicknell's Thrush is more uniformly brown and is found in high-elevation spruce-fir forests.

Identification tips

1. Look for the bold orange and black plumage of the Varied Thrush, especially the black breast band. 2. Observe the habitat: Varied Thrush in Pacific Northwest forests; Bicknell's Thrush in northeastern high-elevation spruce-fir forests. 3. Listen for the Varied Thrush's slow, eerie song compared to the fluty notes of Bicknell's Thrush.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of thrushes, but Varied Thrush may appear slightly bulkier.

Plumage

Varied Thrush has a distinctive orange breast and throat with a bold black band across the chest and a slate-gray back. Bicknell's Thrush is more uniformly brown with a slightly paler underbelly and lacks the bold coloration of the Varied Thrush.

Behaviour

Varied Thrush is often seen foraging on the ground in dark, wet forests, while Bicknell's Thrush is more reclusive and active during dawn and dusk.

Habitat

Varied Thrush prefers mature and old-growth forests in the Pacific Northwest, while Bicknell's Thrush is found in high-elevation spruce-fir forests in the northeastern United States and parts of Canada.

Voice

Varied Thrush has a distinctive song with slow, drawn-out notes at different pitches. Bicknell's Thrush's song is more similar to other Catharus thrushes, with a series of fluty, rising notes.