134 BIRDS OF SOUTH DAKOTA 
FAMILY TURDID/. THRUSHES, BLUEBIRDS 
The Thrush family is well represented in South Dakota, 
as indeed in all parts of the United States. It is preeminently 
the singing family among birds; and, as though one superb gift 
was enough for one family, its members are clothed in modest 
colors. 
754. "TOWNSEND’s SOLITAIRE (Myadestes townsendi.) 
A summer resident of the Black Hills. One was taken 
July 24, 1911 by S. S. Visher. 
Size of the Kingbird. Above, ashy brown; wings and tail 
darker, outer tail feathers edged with white; below, light gray. 
755. Wooo TurusH (Hylocichla mustelina.) 
The Wood Thrush is not widely distributed over the 
State, but is a common resident in the southeastern corner. Its 
upper parts are bright cinnamon brown; its under parts pure 
white freely speckled with roundish black spots. It must not 
be confused with the Olive-backed Veery and Gray-cheeked 
Thrushes, all of which are smaller and more olivaceous. They 
are not readily distinguished from each other but together form 
a numerous group in migration. They do not nest within the 
State. Neither must the Wood Thrush be confused with the 
Brown Thrasher, which is similar in color, but has a curved bill, 
yellow eye ring, long tail, and skulking manner. 
The Wood Thrush is a thoroughly lovable bird, with neat 
form, graceful movements, and frank, open manner. They come 
freely about our homes and often place their nests in the trees 
of our yards, though ordinarily preferring a wooded ravine if 
free from bird enemies. This Thrush is one of our best singers. 
Its bell-like notes, uttered with marked pauses, are heard at 
morning and evening and on cloudy days, the bird usually perch- 
ing on some low branch as it sings. The song rivals that of the 
Hermit Thrush, but, unlike the Hermit, it brings its melody to 
our door instead of requiring us to go to the deep forest to 
hear it. 
756. WVeEeERy (Hylocichla fuscescens fuscescens.) 
This Thrush migrates in company with the Olive-backed 
and Gray-cheeked Thrushes, and is not easily distinguishable 
