Bird GuideThrushesRufous-backed Robin
Rufous-backed Robin
Turdus rufopalliatus

At a Glance

This Mexican specialty is similar to our American Robin in appearance, but is much more elusive, hiding in woods or dense thickets. First found in our area in 1960, it recently has become almost an annual visitor. Practically every winter, one or two are found somewhere in southern Arizona; strays also have reached Texas, New Mexico, and California.
Category
Perching Birds
Conservation
Low Concern
Habitat
Forests and Woodlands, Shrublands, Savannas, and Thickets
Behavior
Direct Flight, Rapid Wingbeats

Range & Identification

Description

9 3/4 "(24 cm). Very similar to American Robin but has no white around eye; usually stronger throat pattern and brighter yellow bill; rufous wash across back and wings.
Size
About the size of a Robin
Wing Shape
Broad, Rounded
Tail Shape
Rounded, Square-tipped

Songs and Calls

Song a series of rich, burry, warbled phrases, reminiscent of American Robin. Calls include a loud, descending, sibilant sssiiuu, a low tuk note (often in series), and a high, thin, lispy si in fligh
Call Pattern
Complex, Falling, Rising, Undulating
Call Type
Chirp/Chip, Flute, Trill, Whistle

Climate Vulnerability

Conservation Status