This thrasher is a desert specialist, occupying dry barren habitats. Very pale gray overall, buffy undertail coverts, long tail that is pale gray at the base and gradually becomes darker towards the dark charcoal gray tip. Corners of the tail are pale gray. Facial markings include a whitish thoat, dark lores, and a thin dark malar stripe. The black bill is decurved, and the eye is dark. Juveniles are like adults, but show paler buff on undertail coverts.

Length: 24 (cm) Wingspan: 30 (cm)

Voice:

Song is a jumble of husky whistled phrases, fairly high-pitched and often repeated. Call is an ascending wheep.

Habitat:

Sandy desert flats with scattered vegetation.

Behavior:

Runs on the ground with tail held high. Forages under shrubs.

Feeding:

Digs in litter under shrubs for insects and other invertebrates, occasionally small reptiles, seeds, and eggs.