Thrushes

Swainson's Thrush

Catharus ustulatus

A buffy-faced, olive-brown thrush with a distinctive ascending, spiraling song. One of the most numerous thrushes migrating through Alaska, including Kodiak, each spring and fall.

Where to look

Alder and spruce thickets throughout Kodiak Island; often heard before it is seen during spring migration.

Habitat

Moist coniferous and mixed forests.

Diet

Insects, berries, and earthworms.

Natural history note

Swainson's Thrushes navigate at night during migration using star patterns and the Earth's magnetic field.