To spot and identify a Swainson’s Thrush, you’ll need a keen eye. These birds love densely forested habitat and you’re unlikely to spot them flying out in the open. After breeding in coniferous and mixed forests in northern North America, many of these long-distance migrants make the several thousand-mile trek down to South America for the winter.

There are two regional varieties of Swainson’s Thrushes. The “Russet-backed” Swainson’s Thrush, breeds on the west coast. They have a brown back and a white breast speckled with brown spots. They have dark black eyes and white eyerings, which can be difficult to spot. The other, “Olive-backed” variety has a dark olive colored back. Their breast is white with olive spots. They have a noticeably bolder white eyering.

Here at Creamer’s Field, you can spot both Swainson’s Thrushes and one of their close relatives, Gray-cheeked Thrushes. It is very easy to confuse the two species. As their name suggests, Gray-cheeked Thrushes have a grayer face. They also have a less prominent eyering. Overall, Gray-cheeks are more elusive, and you’re more likely to spot a Swainson’s.

Swainson’s Thrushes are one of the most commonly-caught bird at Creamer’s Field Migration Station, in both the spring and fall. Since 1992, we have captured over 6,000 individuals.