The Gray Catbird Habits

Well known by bird watchers for their habit of mimicking sounds of other animals and bird species.

One 4 1/2 minute song included 170 distinct phrases.

The cat-like mewing call is generally an alarm call. Informing others that a predator or danger exsist for the birds.

Fairly inquisitve, this bird will pop out of the thick brush if it hears you approaching then, quickly dart back into cover and settle down.

After a time, the bird will continue going about his business with you around.

Both male and female give the "meeow" call.

Gray Catbird Description

Mating Habits

During courtship, watch the male as he raises his head up or down while fluffing out its body feathers in the presence of a female.

Once pairs are formed, the nest building begins.

Gray Catbird Nesting Habits

Fruit Feeder

nest construction, but usually adds very little. The nest is cup shaped, made of twigs, leaves, grasses and grapevine bark, lined with rootlets, pine needles, and horsehair.

The nest is generally located in a shrub, thick vine, or small tree about 2 to 10 feet above the ground. The female lays 2 to 6 dark blue-green eggs that will be incubated by the female only. Incubation last about 12 to 14 days.

The young will leave the nest within 10 to 13 days after hatching.

Feeding Habits

Catbirds vacate their summer range to winter in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. Small but increasing numbers remain in the North through the winter.

If you see Gray Catbirds in your backyard during winter, try placing suet and raisins out for these birds to eat.

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