The Rufous-sided Towhee is an adorable (and friendly) backyard bird that is frequently spotted by bird watchers in the Southeastern United States. With its bold Black and Rufous (rust colored) and White appearance, it's easy to spot and often times is even easier to hear. The Towhee's distinctive calls, which sounds like "Drink your tea" or "Tow Heeeee", the Rufou-sided Towhee is a wonderful bird to have in your yard.
What does a Rufus-sided Towhee look like? Male Rufous-sided Towhees are easy to identify with their bold black head, back, and tail, contrasted by bright white underparts and rust-colored sides.
Females, while less vivid, display a beautiful warm brown instead of the crisp black feathers of the males, but still maintain the same rufous-colored border between the wings and the bright white belly.
Fledgling Towhees lack the obvious and crisp/bold colorations of their parents, but instead have mottled brownish feathers with streaks that easily mimic natural colors from their environment. Males do have more dark contrasting feathers though and you will be able to tell them apart with a close encounter or good quality binoculars (or digital camera)
What do Rufus-sided Towhees eat? (What does the diet of Rufous-sided Towhee consist of?)
Rufous-sided Towhees primarily forage on the ground, searching for insects, seeds, and berries. They have a particular fondness for sunflower seeds and cracked corn. Offering these foods in your bird feeder can attract these charming birds to your yard.
Where do Rufous-sided Towhees migrate to in the Winter?
In the Winter months, Rufous-sided Towhees favor dense brushy areas, woodland edges, and overgrown fields. These environments provide ample cover and food sources, making backyards with shrubs and low trees ideal for their winter habitat. Here in Marietta Georgia we have them year round.
Where do Rufous-sided Towhees spend their Spring and Summer months?
Summer HabitatDuring the summer, these birds frequent similar habitats but may also be found in more open woodlands and forest edges where they breed. They build their nests low to the ground, hidden among the underbrush, which offers protection for their fledglings.
Are you still wondering about details not listed here? Let us know in the comments! We are always excited to delve deeper into the world of backyard birds for you and for us as well! In the short term though, maybe check out the following pages:
All About Birds has a great read about Towhees also!
If you want to get up-close and personal with Rufous-sided Towhees and other amazing backyard birds, we have a few recommended products that can certainly help enhance your experiences: