Aztec Thrush (Ridgwayia pinicola), Upper Madera Canyon (Carrie Nation/Vault Mine trail), Santa Cruz County

This Aztec Thrush was found by Jim Royer, Nick Armstrong and Leif Rydell on 02 August 2011.  It was  photographed by Autumn Amici on the afternoon of 04 August 2011 and by Laurens Halsey on 05 August 2011.

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 has occurred almost annually since 2005, most often in the late summer and early fall when ripe fruits are most available. There are 23 previously accepted records with 2 others pending, but several of those are of multiple individuals. 

Seen well it is unmistakable with its dark hood, white underparts and striking wing and tail patterns. 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.

04 August 2011, photo by Autumn Amici

05 August 2011, photo by Laurens Halsey

 

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