Hermit Thrushes are part of a genus (Catharus )that includes four other similar thrushes in North America: the Veery, Swainson’s Thrush, Gray-cheeked Thrush, and Bicknell’s Thrush.
The Hermit Thrush is a medium-sized thrush native to North America. It’s known for its beautiful, flute-like song, often described as ethereal and melodic, making it one of the most celebrated songbirds.
It has brown upperparts with a reddish tail, pale underparts with dark spots on the breast. This bird is about 6.5–7 inches long with a wingspan of 11–12 inches. Unlike other thrushes it flicks it’s tail slowly.
It Breeds in forests across Canada, the northern U.S., and western mountains and winters in southern U.S. and Central America, preferring woodlands, shrubby areas and gardens.
They love to eat berries and insects. They nest on the ground and their eggs are a light blue. The song is a haunting, flute-like series of clear, whistling notes with a spiraling, echoing effect.
Be on the lookout for this bird. One was seen at Caw Caw 3/18/25 and they have been seen at the Lakehouse. This bird, which is related to the Robin Family can be seen in your backyard too.
Fun Fact: The Hermit Thrush was Henry David Thoreau’s favorite bird, and it’s song has inspired poets and musicians. It’s also the state bird of Vermont.
If you would like to learn more about this bird visit:
- The Cornell Lab of Ornithology – All About Birders: Hermit Thrush
- Article submitted by: Melanie Jerome
This blog post is part of a series SIB will publish on a regular basis to feature birds seen in the area, both migratory and permanent residents. When possible we will use photographs taken by our members. Please let us know if you have any special requests of birds you would like to learn about.