ExploreBirds

California Towhee

Melozone crissalis

The California Towhee is a friendly bird that loves to hop around on the ground. It has a brown body and a cheerful song that makes it easy to spot in gardens and parks.

Habitat: Urban areas

Appearance

The California Towhee is a medium-sized bird, mostly plain brown with a warm, rusty-red patch under its tail. It has a thick, conical beak perfect for cracking seeds, and its overall unassuming look helps it blend into its natural environment.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderPasseriformesFamilyPasserellidaeGenusMelozone
California Towhee
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California Towhee

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Baby California Towhees grow incredibly fast, leaving the nest after just 10 days!

These birds rarely fly long distances, preferring to stay hidden in dense bushes and on the ground.

They are famous for a sharp 'chink' call, which sounds like two pebbles tapping together!

When foraging, they often hop forward and then jump backward quickly to uncover tasty treats.

Special abilities

Ability

Ground Scraper

The California Towhee can kick backward with both feet at once to uncover seeds, helping them find hidden meals.

Ability

Urban Acclimation

The California Towhee has adapted to human presence, which helps them find food and shelter in suburban gardens.

Ability

Low-Flight Navigator

The California Towhee has strong legs for hopping and prefers staying low, which helps them maneuver through dense shrubs.

Measurements & details

Length
22-25 cm
Wingspan
28-32 cm
Weight
0.046-0.07 kg
Lifespan
2-7 years
Top Speed
35 km/h
Clutch Size
2-6
Incubation
11-13 days

Diet & Feeding

These omnivores enjoy a varied menu of seeds, insects, and berries, like tiny feathered foragers!

Primary Foods

  • seeds
  • insects
  • berries
  • small snails
  • flower buds

Foraging Method

  • Foraging

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Enjoy watching birds from a distance and don't try to touch or catch them.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is California Towhee?

22-25 cm

What is California Towhee's wingspan?

28-32 cm

How much does California Towhee weigh?

0.046-0.07 kg

How long does California Towhee live?

2-7 years

How fast can California Towhee move?

35 km/h

What does California Towhee eat?

These omnivores enjoy a varied menu of seeds, insects, and berries, like tiny feathered foragers!

Where is California Towhee usually found?

Urban areas

How does California Towhee hunt?

Foraging

Snap Map

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Where to spot

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