American thrushes ID PHOTO GUIDE
1 Wood Thrush (Connecticut, United States, 10 May 2010). Noticeably larger than the four Catharus species covered here, Wood Thrush is slightly smaller than the familiar Song Thrush. As well as size, the combination of fiery russet upperparts, most intense on the crown and hindneck, and blackish, heart-shaped spots on the white underparts should make identification straightforward. With just a single British record from a wind-lashed St Agnes, Scilly, in October 1987, this is one of the most eagerly anticipated vagrants for several generations of birders.
At this time of year, British and Irish birders’ thoughts often turn to rarities from across the Atlantic. Among these are the elusive and highly sought-after Catharus thrushes. Four species – Grey- cheeked, Swainson’s and Hermit Thrushes, and Veery – have been recorded here as vagrants, yet each is often frightfully elusive, making field identification tricky work. The similar-looking Wood Thrush, of the genus Hylocichla, must also be considered. Julian Hough has all the advice you need to recognise what you’re looking at should you discover one of these rarities in the field this autumn.