Spotted Towhee: A New Bird for my Regina Yard

While having breakfast, I saw a Spotted Towhee hopping under our backyard bird feeder. I glanced away, and it was gone. I thought perhaps I'd mistaken the black-and-white markings on its back for another bird...

Spotted Towhee cautiously checking out the grass under the bird feeder, in Regina. © SB

I've only seen a Spotted Towhee once in Saskatchewan — and that was in the distance, at Grasslands National Park. And I've only seen one up close — but that was near the water, along the West Dyke Trail in Richmond, B.C.

But this Spotted Towhee came back to our yard several times during the day. Never brave. Never coming close to the house, or staying long. But clearly identifiable, from its black head, red eyes, rusty sides, and spotted wings.

Spotted Towhee in Richmond, B.C. - unlike my Regina bird, this one was not shy! © SB

What are these? Spotted Towhees
Locations: 1) Backyard, Saskatchewan, 2) Richmond, B.C., Canada
Photo dates: May 13, 2016, and June 18, 2014.

~~~~~