Bird’s ID – Long-tailed Mockingbird

The Long-tailed Mockingbird (Mimus longicaudatus) is a species of bird in the Mimidae family. It is found in dry scrubland and woodland in western Ecuador and Peru (north of Camaná).

The bird favors open habitats with scattered low bushes and shrubs, such as forest edge and young second growth, montane scrub.

It is frequently found in gardens and parks. It often feeds on the ground, running forwards on relatively long legs.

An attractive, thrush-like bird, the long-tailed mockingbird has a long, elegant tail which it carries at a pert angle whilst on the ground. Its plumage is made up of grey, cappuccino, and dun colored feathers. The outer tail feathers are broadly tipped white. Its face has been described as harlequin patterned. The juvenile is duller, with a dark iris, and is spotted or streaked on underparts.

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10 thoughts on “Bird’s ID – Long-tailed Mockingbird”

Jet Eliot on July 31, 2019 at 8:28 am said:

Here’s a bird I have never seen or heard of. So beautiful, and I can imagine the melodious notes they would sing. Thanks for the introduction, HJ — great post as always.

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- H.J. for avian101 on July 31, 2019 at 5:37 pm said:
  
  I believe they are close relatives to the Galapagos Mockingbirds. You may have seen them. Thank you, my friend. 🙂
  
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  - Jet Eliot on August 1, 2019 at 5:01 pm said:
    
    Oh yes, I did see the Galapagos Mockingbirds…that’s fun. Thanks HJ.
Indira on July 31, 2019 at 10:20 am said:

We do not have this bird here! Excellent pictures!

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- H.J. for avian101 on July 31, 2019 at 5:40 pm said:
  
  You’re right, Indira, most likely you don’t Thank you! 🙂
  
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tanjabrittonwriter on July 31, 2019 at 6:32 pm said:

Thank you for introducing this gorgeous bird, H.J. I only know its Northern cousin, and love its variable song.

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- H.J. for avian101 on July 31, 2019 at 9:16 pm said:
  
  Thank you very much, Tanja. 🙂
  
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bayphotosbydonna on August 4, 2019 at 8:13 pm said:

Great shots, HJ, I love their eye bandit look!

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- H.J. for avian101 on August 4, 2019 at 9:05 pm said:
  
  Thank you very much, Donna. 🙂
  
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13glidermom on August 5, 2019 at 2:29 am said:

Reblogged this on FlamingPurpleJellyfish.

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