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Mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos)

© John J.Mosesso

Length: 9-11 in.
Habitat: open ares, farmland, suburbs, parks; scrubby growth near water (dry areas).

Within its range the Mockingbird is much more common than the similarly colored shrikes. It is best known for its song, which may be heard day or night. Typically the bird repeats a phrase over and over (perhaps half a dozen times), then drops that phrase and goes on to another. Often the phrases are imitations of other birds' songs, and "mockers" have also been known to sound like frogs, crickets, and dogs, among others. They do not need a recent reminder, it seems, but can remember phrases for several months at least.

Animal Calendars