This species is nearly identical to Bicknell’s Thrush, but has a much broader breeding and migratory range. Upperparts are a cold gray-brown or olive-gray. The face is gray with whitish mottling or streaking, and pale gray around the eye. Blackish streaks frame the white throat. Blackish triangular spots on the lower throat and breast fade to brownish oval spots on the sides and belly. The upper breast may show a very pale buff wash. The flanks are cold gray-brown, similar to the upperparts. The bill is dull yellow with a dark culmen and extensive dark tip. The wings show long primary projection, longer than the length of the tertials. At very close range, the legs are flesh-colored with darker toes and bright yellow soles of the feet. Compare to Bicknell’s, which has darker legs, only slightly darker toes, and flesh or dull yellow soles of the feet.

Length: 17 (cm) Wingspan: 29 (cm)

Voice:

Song is a downward spiral of flutey notes, similar to Veery, but higher and more stuttering. Bicknell’s song is higher, thinner, and ends on an upward inflection.

Habitat:

Breeds in coniferous forest with heavy understory. May be found in nearly any brushy or treed habitat in migration.

Behavior:

Tends to remain low to or on the ground and is generally somewhat secretive.

Feeding:

Forages on the ground for insects.