About Toxostoma crissale Henry, 1858
This bird reaches a full grown length of 32 centimetres (13 in), and has a deeply curved bill. Its eyes are dull yellow. Bird expert Roger Tory Peterson described this species' song as sweeter and less spasmodic than the songs of other thrashers. This species can be found near desert streams in dense underbrush, mesquite thickets, willow stands, scrub oak, and high elevation manzanita; it also occurs in low desert areas near canyon chaparral. The crissal thrasher rarely flies in open areas. It generally prefers walking or running through its territory instead of flying, and will almost always run into cover when disturbed by a potential predator. The species' common name comes from the bright distinct color of the crissum, the area between its tail and vent, which contrasts with the rest of its plumage.
