Toxostoma curvirostre
curve-billed thrasher

Toxostoma curvirostre is found in southeastern and central Arizona, southeastern parts of Colorado, northeastern New Mexico, through western and central Texas and south to Mexico.

The curve-billed thrasher prefers dense aggregations of cholla cactus, mesquite, or palo verde. It will also choose dense urban areas as long as there are suitable nesting areas nearby.

T. curvirostre is an overall brownish-gray bird that quite effectively blends in with its surroundings. The chest is mottled and the tail is dark gray. A very conspicuous characteristic of T. curvirostre is the golden-orange color of its eyes and of course the long curved bill that gives it its name. Both male and female are between 9.5"-11.5" in length; there is no sexual dimorphism evident in this species.

It builds its nest most often in cholla cactus, usually under the upper protective arms. Twigs are used to construct the nest. Two to four light blue eggs are laid; and the altricial young hatch between 12 to 15 days.

T. curvirostre has the most curious personality out of all the thrashers. Not of the shy sort, T. curvirostre broadcasts its call "whit-wheet" vigorously while flying from shrub to shrub.

T. curvirostre is an omnivore that uses its curved bill to probe for insects under dead leaves and other debris. While insects are its main food source, other food items include cacti seeds, prickly pear fruit, and various berries.

T. curvirostre may benefit humans by reducing the numbers of pest or damaging insects. As a seed eater, it may play a role in seed dispersal.

Also, T. curvirostre is an enjoyable species to observe in nature. Its antics will keep the observer amused for hours.