How to identify the Eastern Towhee

To correctly identify the Eastern Towhee (Pipilo erythrophthalmus), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

17-23 cm (6.7-9.1 in)

Wingspan

20-30 cm (7.9-11.8 in)

Weight

32-53 g (1.1-1.9 oz)

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Males have a glossy black head, upperparts, and tail, with rufous (rusty) flanks and a clean white belly. There are prominent white patches on the outer tail feathers, visible in flight or when fanned. A small white patch is often present at the bend of the wing. Females are similar but have a rich brown head and upperparts where the male is black.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Conical, stout, and dark gray to black, adapted for cracking seeds.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Typically bright red in adults, though some individuals, particularly in the southeastern U.S., can have white or yellow eyes. Juveniles have brown eyes.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Pinkish-gray to dark gray.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   Large size for a sparrow, rufous flanks, white belly, and white outer tail feathers. The bright red eye (in most adults) is also a key feature.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles are heavily streaked brown overall, with a buffy wash and a streaked breast. They lack the distinct black/brown and rufous patterns of adults. Their eyes are brown. They gradually acquire adult plumage over their first year.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes in adults. Plumage remains consistent year-round, though it may appear slightly duller or more worn before the annual molt.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Pronounced. Males have black heads and upperparts; females have brown heads and upperparts. Otherwise, plumage patterns are similar.

Key field marks

• Plumage (Male). Look for the striking contrast of glossy black head, back, and tail, bright rufous (rusty) flanks, and a clean white belly. White outer tail feathers are visible in flight.
• Plumage (Female). Similar pattern to the male, but with a rich brown head, back, and tail instead of black. Rufous flanks and white belly are still prominent.
• Eye Color. Adults typically have bright red eyes, which are very distinctive. Some southern populations may have white or yellow eyes.
• Foraging Behavior. Listen for and observe its characteristic 'double-scratch' foraging method in leaf litter, where it kicks back leaves with both feet simultaneously.
• Song. Learn its distinctive 'drink-your-tea!' song, often heard from dense cover. The first note is usually buzzy or trilled.
• Call. Listen for its sharp, rising 'che-wink' or 'tow-hee' call, often given repeatedly.

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