Above: Veery (by Garry Budyk)
What Does It Look Like?
Somewhat smaller than a Robin, Veeries are a woodland thrush with warm, reddish-brown upperparts and faint spotting on the breast. The underparts are pale.
Does It Migrate?
In the fall, breeding populations from Canada and northern US states migrate to South America, where they overwinter mainly in the Amazon Basin and in southeastern Brazil.
Above: Veery (by Christian Artuso)
Where Does It Live?
Veeries breed in moist mixed and deciduous forests across the southern boreal forest from central British Columbia to southern Newfoundland, and south to Colorado, around the Great Lakes to Pennsylvania and along the Appalachian Mountains. Small populations may be found south to New Mexico.
Where Can I See It?
Difficult to see in the dense forest understory they prefer, you may have better luck finding a Veery during breeding season by listening for the ethereal, downward-spiralling song, or strong call note. Dusk is an especially good time to listen for them. Places to find this species include Hillside and Victoria beaches, the Pinawa area, Brandon Hills, Spruce Woods Provincial Park (along the Assiniboine River) and Riding Mountain National Park (east escarpment). You can listen to the Veery’s song and call note here: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Veery/sounds
Above: Veery (by Christian Artuso)
Conservation:
Veery populations in Canada are declining, mainly due to intensive deforestation on their wintering grounds. Forest fragmentation is a severe threat, both in South America and in breeding territories across Canada.
Did You Know?
Veeries are capable of flying up to 285 kms in one night!