This spotted towhee visited my garden last Sunday after it had snowed. The clouds had mostly drifted off into the distance and sun rays were peeking through the forest. The afternoon lighting was beautiful and the neighborhood quiet. Suddenly this distinctly patterned bird hopped right in front of my camera. After he studied me for a bit, he jumped off the branch and into the underbrush. They are very shy around people and don’t pose out in the open very often.
This fluffed up spotted towhee has red eyes and a large conical bill.
A larger bill enabled this bird to eat a wider variety of seeds and insects.
The male has rufous sides, a dark hood, back and wings. The chest is white.
It has distinct white wing bars and spots on its back
and on the underside and edges of its the tail feathers.
This beautiful bird forages in small groups.
They hop around two-legged and scratch leaf litter and dirt in search of food.
They are so much fun to watch!
in cahoots with muddy boots 
Wow, just love all these photos. Good thing you were able to capture it.
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Thank you Arlene! It was just pure luck that this little guy sat still for me!
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what beautiful colors – nice shots
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Thank you Beth! 😊
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While I don’t know much about birds, I do love to watch them! Fabulous pictures, Sabine!
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Thank you Missy! I’m not an expert on birds, but it’s something I’ve enjoyed ever since one of my sons became interested in them at age 4 or 5. 😊
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The spotted towhee’s white wing bars are a treat. And the birdie lifted his tail for you to see it!
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Yes Trish, I got mooned by a spotted towhee! 😉
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Very beautiful and I’ve never seen one of these birds before – striking plumage at all angles!
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Google eastern towhee, Linda! There is a variation of this bird in your area! And yes I agree, their plumage is striking!
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I did just Google around and saw they do live and breed here in Michigan. I also watched a video of them on YouTube. Very beautiful song as well. I follow Detroit Audubon on Facebook to see what they see in our area. They always post photos and details on what birds they see when they go birding. I didn’t recall the name “Eastern Towee”, but will pay closer attention going forward.
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I’m positive you’ll see one sooner or later, Linda! 😊
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Maybe when it warms up a little Sabine?
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Yes, possibly! Maybe check the local Audubon website!
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And fun to look at and learn about, too. Thanks for sharing these close-ups.
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You are welcome LuAnne! There is an eastern version on your side of the country! 😊
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That’s good to know. I have never seen anything like these birds.
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What a cute bird! I love them all though. You take so many great photos of them.
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Thanks Marlene! 😊
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Love the closeness of these shots. The camera on my phone fails miserably at this so thanks for sharing.
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Thank you! I’m glad that you enjoyed these photos! I like them too. These birds rarely sit still, especially not with a human close by.
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👏👏👏
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Such a cute little bird. Well captured by your photography, Sabine.
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Thanks Amanda! 😊
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