Rufous-backed Robin (Turdus rufopalliatus), McCormick Park, Tucson, Pima County

This Rufous-backed Robin was found by Clive Green and Mary Jean Hage in a fruiting pistache tree in McCormick Park, Tucson on 7 November 2010 and photographed by Mary Jean the same day.  It was later photographed by Ken Kertell on 16 November 2010.

Rare but regular winter visitor, usually seen October to early April.  In most years, there are multiple records and records are perhaps increasing.  There have been 12 previous documented reports to the AZFO website since 2006.

The long throat streaks, lack of white eye arcs and of course the rufous coverts and back distinguish Rufous-backed Robin from American Robin. 

07 November 2010, photo by Mary Jean Hage

16 November 2010, photo by Ken Kertell

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