Facts about Gray Catbird

1. 07

   Pairs of gray catbirds often perform duet singing together, with both males and females vocalizing in coordinated sequences to reinforce their bond and defend territory.

   Gray CatbirdMay 14sharebehaviorcommunicationbreeding
2. 06

   Fledgling gray catbirds remain dependent on their parents for approximately 10-12 days after leaving the nest, during which time they learn foraging and survival skills.

   Gray CatbirdMay 14sharebehaviordevelopmentparenting
3. 05

   A gray catbird's nest typically contains three to five pale blue-green eggs that hatch within 12-13 days of incubation.

   Gray CatbirdMay 14sharereproductionbiologymeasurement
4. 04

   Male gray catbirds defend breeding territories of approximately 1-3 acres during the nesting season by singing from exposed perches and engaging in physical confrontations with rivals.

   Gray CatbirdMay 14sharebehaviorterritoryreproduction
5. 03

   Indigo dye from elderberries and other dark fruits stains the gray catbird's bill and tongue during late summer feeding, creating a distinctive dark coloration.

   Gray CatbirdMay 14sharebehaviordietseasonal
6. 02

   During spring migration, gray catbirds travel over 1,200 miles from Central and South American wintering grounds to North American breeding territories.

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7. 01

   The gray catbird can mimic over 40 different bird species and produces a distinctive mewing call resembling a domestic cat.

   Gray CatbirdMay 14sharebehaviorbiologyvocalization