Every fall, birdwatchers in the Sacramento area look forward to the arrival of the Hermit Thrush. The Hermit Thrush migrates from several northern states (including Alaska) and Canada. The species comes to our area because food is more available and to enjoy the milder winter climate.  Hermit Thrushes are in the same family group as the Robin. Just like Robins, Hermit Thrushes like to eat berries, insects, and sometimes invertebrates.  

The Hermit Thrush often perches in one spot for a while; so you can frequently get a good look at it. There is nothing flashy or colorful about the Hermit Thrush. They are a grayish-brown bird that has triangular-shaped little spots on their breast and have reddish-brown tails. However, their sweet nature appeals to many who spot them. Often people refer to them as being their favorite bird.

Many think that the song of the Hermit Thrush is one of the most beautiful of all bird songs. Sadly, in the Sacramento area, we don’t hear them sing all that often. Hermit Thrushes usually save their delightful song for when they are in their breeding grounds, which are to the north and east of us. However, you CAN hear their calls here. Many species of birds have both songs and calls. You can listen to the Hermit Thrush’s song and calls below:

This is one of the calls that the Hermit Thrush makes

This is another call of the Hermit Thrush

This is the song of the Hermit Thrush

These songs and calls of the Hermit Thrush are from xeno-canto. More Hermit Thrush vocalizations can be found at xeno-canto.org/species/Catharus-guttatus.

So now, perhaps it’s time for you and your family to go out and see if you can find (or hear) a Hermit Thrush! Good luck!