At
12 inches in length, the Curve-billed Thrasher is
a slender bird with a long tail and long, strongly
curved bill. Both the male and female are pale brown
above and light below with faint streaks on the
breast and underparts. The eyes are bright red.
The eyes of an immature bird are yellow, making
it look very similar to the Bendire's Thrasher.
Diet:
The Curve-billed Thrasher forages on the ground,
using its curved bill to poke holes in the soil
and extract insects. It also consumes berries, seeds,
and cacti fruit.
Range:
The Curve-billed Thrasher is a common resident of
the desert southwest. It breeds from central Texas
east through New Mexico to western Arizona. It also
occurs throughout most of Mexico.
Habitat:
This thrasher occurs in a variety of dry habitats
including desert, scrublands, open brushy woodlands,
and regions with mesquite or cholla cactus.
Status:
Common and stable.
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