Rufous-sided Towhee

Pipilo erythrophthalmus

Rufous-sided Towhee. Photo:Dr. Lloyd Glenn Ingles

The male of this species is striking, with a black head and back, chestnut sides, and white underparts. The female is chestnut-brown, except for her white underparts. In some western populations, however, both sexes display markings similar to the eastern male, but with the difference of white wing bars and somewhat muted colour in the female. This bird nests on the ground, where it also forages for food.

Distribution of Rufous-sided Towhee in Canada