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Presidio of San FranciscoCalla lilies in the eucalyptus forest
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Presidio of San Francisco
California Towhee
(Pipilo crissalis)
 
California Towhee
Will Elder, NPS
California Towhee near El Polin Spring.
 

Natural History: The California Towhee forages on seeds, insects, and some fruits, particularly on open ground near brushy cover. It nests in the lower branches of shrubs and trees above ground. It creates nests of twigs, grasses, and flowers. It breeds in early April to early August. It tends to move into areas after logging, farming, and urbanization activities.

General Distribution: In the Presidio, this species can be found in coastal and dune scrub areas, lawns, and areas with oak, willow, eucalyptus, blackberry, and toyon trees.

Frequency: This species is common all year.

Identifying Characteristics: The California Towhee has a dull gray-brown color with a longish tail. The tail coverts underside is a pale rusty color. It has a striped, yellowish throat.

Presidio Birds main page

Buffalo Soldier Cavalry  

Did You Know?
For some of the Buffalo Soldiers in Roosevelt's Honor Guard, the president's visit to the Presidio was a reunion of sorts. During the Spanish-American War, the 9th Cavalry had fought alongside Colonel Roosevelt's "Rough Riders" at San Juan Hill.

Last Updated: November 16, 2007 at 17:22 EST