Catbird (Dumetella carolinensis)
Length about 9 inches; the slaty gray plumage and black cap and tail
are distinctive. Breeds throughout the United States west to New
Mexico, Utah, Oregon, and Washington, and in southern Canada;
winters from the Gulf States to Panama.
In some localities the catbird is fairly common. Tangled growths are
its favorite nesting places and retreats, and ornamental shrubbery
around houses will attract and keep them inside a town. The bird
has a fine song, frequently broken by mewing like a cat. Its habits
are somewhat similar to those of its cousin, the mockingbird, with
song almost as varied, but it is more secretive and usually sings
while hidden in the bushes. It feeds on fruit and insects, and can be
lured to shelves and windows by raisins, cherries, or chopped apples.