Birdsong field guide
Gray Catbird
Dumetella carolinensis
A medium-sized, slate-gray songbird of the mimid family known for its secretive nature and varied, mimetic song.
What it sounds like
A signature nasal, cat-like 'meew' and a long, rambling series of whistles, squeaks, and imitated notes.
Reference call, compare with what you heard
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Field notes
- Possesses a distinctive chestnut-colored patch on the undertail coverts often hidden from view.
- A versatile mimic capable of imitating other bird species, tree frogs, and even mechanical sounds.
- Unlike mockingbirds, Gray Catbirds typically sing each phrase only once without immediate repetition.
- Features a small, distinctive black cap that contrasts with its uniform lead-gray plumage.
- Known to aggressively defend nests against predators and brood parasites like Brown-headed Cowbirds.
Habitat
Dense thickets, overgrown fields, forest edges, and suburban shrubbery.
Range
Breeds across eastern and central North America; winters in the southeastern U.S., Central America, and the Caribbean.
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