Aztec Thrush (Ridgwayia pinicola), Ramsey Canyon, Cochise County

A female Aztec Thrush was discovered by Tony and Martha Bauer on 31 July 2009.  This bird was photographed by Jerome Smith on 11 August 2009 and by Chris West on 9 August.  There have been several sightings in between but it is not known how many birds are involved.

Aztec Thrush is a rare visitor to the middle elevations of the mountains of SE Arizona where it often wanders widely in search of fruit.  It has become increasingly regular in the last few years and now occurs annually, most often in the late summer and early fall when ripe fruits are most available. 

Seen well it is unmistakable. However, with only partial looks, juvenile Spotted Towhees, which are poorly illustrated in guides, can be remarkably similar and are often mistaken for Aztec Thrushes when seen poorly.

11 August 2009, photo by Jerome Smith

09 August 2009, photos by Chris West

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