Both the Varied Thrush and the American Robin are medium-sized songbirds found in North America. However, there are some key differences between the juvenile birds of these two species that can help with identification. In this article, we will go over the field marks, behavior, habitat, diet, and other factors that set apart young Varied Thrushes and Robins. Getting familiar with these differences is important for birders looking to identify and appreciate both of these iconic bird species.
Appearance
When it comes to physical appearance, there are noticeable differences between juvenile Varied Thrushes and Robins:
Size
On average, Varied Thrushes tend to be slightly larger than Robins. A juvenile Varied Thrush may measure around 8.5-10 inches in length with a wingspan of 12-14 inches. Juvenile Robins are a bit smaller, measuring around 8-10 inches in length with a wingspan of 12-13 inches.
Plumage
The plumage, or feather pattern, of these two birds also shows some distinct differences:
Juvenile Varied Thrush:
- Brownish-gray upperparts
- Lighter gray underparts with brown speckling on breast
- Dark gray cheek patch
- Faint dark breast band
Juvenile Robin:
- Brownish-gray upperparts
- White throat
- Heavily spotted breast ranging from white to cinnamon-brown
- Dark head and tail
So while both have brownish-gray upperparts, the clean gray underside and cheek patch of the Varied Thrush helps distinguish it from the more heavily marked Robin.
| Feature | Juvenile Varied Thrush | Juvenile Robin |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 8.5-10 inches long | 8-10 inches long |
| Upperparts | Brownish-gray | Brownish-gray |
| Underparts | Lighter gray with brown speckling on breast | White throat, heavily spotted from white to cinnamon-brown on breast and belly |
| Facial Markings | Dark gray cheek patch | Dark head |
Bill
The bill shape and size is also different between the two species. Juvenile Varied Thrush have a thinner, sharper, and slightly curved bill that is dark on top and yellowish on the bottom. Juvenile Robins have a shorter, straighter bill that is all black.
Legs and Feet
Leg color differs between the two – juvenile Varied Thrushes have pinkish legs while juvenile Robins have brownish legs.
Behavior
Juvenile Varied Thrushes and Robins exhibit some behavioral differences:
Foraging:
- Varied Thrush tend to forage by flipping leaves on the forest floor to uncover insects and other prey.
- Robins often forage in more open areas, running and stopping to grab prey from the ground.
Movement:
- Varied Thrush hops and bounds between perches while foraging.
- Robins tend to run and stop frequently when on the ground.
Flocking:
- Juvenile Varied Thrush are often solitary or in small groups while foraging.
- Juvenile Robins may forage in larger mixed flocks, especially in migration or winter.
So in general, Varied Thrushes have more subtle, reserved movements compared to the more active, jerky movements of foraging Robins. Varied Thrushes also tend to stay in denser habitat.
Habitat
The preferred habitats of these two birds differ significantly:
Juvenile Varied Thrush:
- Coniferous or mixed forests
- Areas with dense understory and leaf litter
- Higher elevations
Juvenile Robin:
- Open woods
- Backyards and parks
- Low and medium elevations
So Varied Thrushes are birds of the deep mountain forests, while Robins thrive in more open, urban and suburban settings at lower elevations. This habitat preference continues into the juvenile stage.
Diet
As juveniles, these two bird species eat:
Juvenile Varied Thrush:
- Insects and spiders
- Worms
- Berries
Juvenile Robin:
- Insects and worms
- Some berries and fruits
Both are omnivorous, eating a combination of insects and fruit. However, Varied Thrushes appear to consume more berries and fruits compared to the insect-dominated diet of Robins.
Range and Distribution
Where these species occur geographically also differs:
Juvenile Varied Thrush:
- West coast from California to Alaska
- Rocky Mountain states
- Pacific Northwest and British Columbia
Juvenile Robin:
- Wide distribution across United States and southern Canada
- Can be found coast to coast
- Less common in the far southwest
So Varied Thrushes occupy a smaller range concentrated in the western mountain regions, while Robins are widespread across much of North America.
Migration and Wintering
The winter movements of these species also show some key differences:
Juvenile Varied Thrush:
- Many are permanent residents throughout their range
- Some may migrate short distances altitudinally within the mountains
Juvenile Robin:
- Primarily short-distance migrants
- Northern populations migrate south for the winter
- Some may remain as far north as southern Canada in mild winters
So while Robins are migratory and winter farther south each year, Varied Thrushes are mostly permanent mountain residents that stay within their breeding habitats year-round.
Conservation Status
The conservation outlook and population trends also differ:
Juvenile Varied Thrush:
- Populations are declining in parts of range
- Vulnerable to habitat loss in Pacific Northwest
- Not considered globally threatened
Juvenile Robin:
- Abundant and widespread
- Increasing population trends
- Least concern for conservation
Robins remain common bird species, while Varied Thrush numbers have seen some declines, especially at the northern end of their range.
Conclusion
In summary, while juvenile Varied Thrushes and Robins share some visual similarities with their brownish-gray upperparts, the differences in plumage patterns, facial markings, size, behavior, habitat preferences, diet, range, and conservation status help set them apart. Juvenile Varied Thrushes are larger mountain forest birds of the West that forage more deliberately on the forest floor. Juvenile Robins are slightly smaller, widespread songbirds that thrive in more open, urban areas as active ground foragers. Being able to distinguish these species takes practice, but awareness of their distinct differences aids identification. So next time you come across a juvenile thrush, take note of the plumage, size, behavior and habitat to determine if you’re looking at a young Varied Thrush or Robin.
