Singing Gray Catbird (photo by Dennis Church FCC)
One of the most fabulous summer birds is certainly the Gray Catbird, who is doing a LOT of singing right now in southern Wisconsin. It makes a variety of sounds that are both silly and interesting, given that this bird is a relative of mockingbirds and thrashers — birds that are skilled mimics. Its song is a delightful gibberish of babbling noises, and its call is what gives it the name Catbird.
This species makes me think of hot, humid afternoons playing the yard as a kid. The “Mew! Mew!” call was a constant noise in the heat of summer at my parent’s house in southern Minnesota, and is one of the first bird sounds I distinctly remember locking into my memory bank. It’s a cat… it’s a bird… it’s a CATBIRD!
In addition to its wonderful sounds, this bird has a fun visual surprise too. It may look a bit drab, with its gray body and black cap. But check out its rusty underpants!
Check out that rusty-colored booty! (photo by Dennis Church FCC)
A good view of the Gray Catbird’s “rusty underpants” (photo by Hal Trachtenberg FCC)
Don’t underestimate the awesomeness of this bird. Once you hear that “Mew!” and the non-sensical and electric babbling of its song, you won’t forget it!
SONG:
The Gray Catbird’s song is electric-sounding and sharp, without a consistent melody. This makes it tricky for those of us who like consistency. So with this bird, to learn its song don’t really listen for the melody but rather it’s sharp gibberish quality.
Call:
This is where the catbird gets its name. Listen to all that kitty-esque mewing!
I hope you learn this call and enjoy the process! Yay catbirds!
Who’s That Singing? is a series designed for Birding by Ear class participants but available to anyone interested in learning more!
Written by Brenna Marsicek, Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance director of outreach
