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Thrush-like calls

Discussion:

        The thrush-like calls group is a complex of relatively long flight calls whose frequencies typically range between 2-6 kHz We call this category thrush-like calls because the thrushes in eastern North America are the dominant group of migrant landbirds in this category. 

        Calls vary in duration, pitch, and whether they are descending, rising, or arched. Also useful for identification are somewhat subjective characters such as how pure-toned or vibrant the calls are. Playing the calls in the table above will reveal these qualities and, with practice, one may be able to identify many of these species in the field by their flight calls.

        When listening to thrush-like calls, the flight call of Swainson's Thrush provides a good standard for comparison. Swainson's Thrush is a wide-ranging species whose nocturnal flight call is commonly heard across eastern North America and is relatively distinctive. For example, in characterizing Gray-cheeked Thrush's flight call, one might say that compared to Swainson's Thrush it sounds higher-pitched, quicker, more downward-arched, and harsher.

        In the table above we have tried to include calls that reveal the range of variation for each species. However, for some species, our lack of diurnal flight call examples limits our ability to do this.