Black-throated Thrush song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Black-throated Thrush, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

The song is a series of clear, fluty, melancholy phrases, often consisting of two to four whistled notes, delivered slowly and deliberately. It can be quite varied and typically sounds softer and less varied than the song of a Song Thrush.

Calls

Common calls include a soft, rolling 'churr' or 'tsrr' and a thin, high-pitched 'tseep' or 'seee' often given in flight or as an alarm call. When alarmed, a sharp 'chak-chak-chak' can also be heard.

When they vocalize

Sings primarily during the breeding season, from spring through early summer. Calls are given year-round, particularly alarm calls when disturbed or contact calls during migration.

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