California Thrasher

The California thrasher (Toxostoma redivivum) is a large member of family Mimidae found primarily in chaparral habitat in California in the United States and Baja California in Mexico. It is the only species of the genus Toxostoma throughout most of its range. == Taxonomy and systematics == The California thrasher is closely related to the crissal thrasher (Toxostoma crissale) and LeConte's thrasher (T. lecontei), and the three may form a superspecies. It has two subspecies, the nominate T. r. redivivum and T. r. sonomae. The phylogeography of the California thrasher has been explored through a study analyzing mitochondrial-DNA variation. The distribution of genealogical lineages within the species reflects a complex series of ecological and historical events that have shaped its current geographical distribution. The phylogeographic analysis sheds light on the evolutionary history and the distribution patterns of this bird across its range. == Description == The California thrasher is about 32 cm (13 in) long and weighs up to 90 g (3.2 oz); it is the largest thrasher. It has a distinctive long, decurved beak and a long tail. It is generally deep grayish brown above with olive tones on the tail. It has a grayish buff supercilium, a dark…