The Brown Thrasher (Toxostoma rufum) is a bird in the Mimidae family of passerine (songbirds) such as mockingbirds, that mimic other birds. 

The Brown Thrasher is reddish-brown with dark streaks. Its underparts are white or buff-coloured with dark streaks. It has a teardrop shape on its chest. It has a long, rounded rufous (reddish) tail with pale corners. Its eyes are bright yellow. Its beak is brown, long, and curved downward. The male and the female look similar. 

The Brown Thrasher grows to 23-30 centimetres (9-12 inches) tall with a wingspan of 29-33 centimetres (11-13 inches). 

It is found in eastern and central America and central Canada. It can live in a range of habitats, from woodlands to dense brush, as well as agricultural farmlands.

In the southern regions of its habitat, it is a resident bird (it does not migrate). In the colder northern parts of its habitat, the Brown Thrasher often migrates south in winter to look for food. 

It is an omnivore, eating a varied diet ranging from insects to fruit and nuts. 

It is noted for its many songs, as well as its ability to mimic other birds.

It can be solitary or seen in pairs. 

It nests in small trees and shrubs. It sometimes nests on the ground. The nest is made of twigs, lined with grass and leaves. The female lays 3-5 eggs, which hatch after 11-14 days. Both parents sit on the eggs, and they both feed and raise the chicks. 

Location of photographs: Washington DC, America

Photographer: Martina Nicolls

Martina Nicolls: SIMILAR BUT DIFFERENT IN THE ANIMAL KINGDOM