The Gray Catbird, Dumetella carolinensis, is a common North American songbird known for its vocal abilities. This medium-sized perching bird, part of the Mimidae family, is often heard before it is seen, typically hidden within dense shrubbery.
The Distinctive “Meow” Call
The most recognizable sound of the Gray Catbird is its characteristic cat-like “mew” call, which gives the bird its common name. This raspy, somewhat nasal sound often resembles the cry of a domestic cat, leading many to initially mistake it for a feline. The “mew” can be drawn out and has a slightly hoarse quality.
Catbirds use this distinctive call in various contexts, including during courtship, when defending their nests, or to signal agitation. It serves as a presence indicator, often heard when the bird is hidden in thickets, and is used year-round.
Beyond the Meow: Mimicry
The Gray Catbird can mimic a wide array of sounds. It weaves imitations of other bird calls, frog croaks, and even mechanical noises into its long, rambling songs. These songs are often described as a continuous, disjointed series of whistles, squeaks, gurgles, and whines.
While catbirds are skilled mimics, their imitations are less precise than those of Northern Mockingbirds. They incorporate snippets of other species’ songs, but sing each phrase only once, unlike mockingbirds which often repeat phrases multiple times. A single catbird song can last for several minutes, with some recorded instances exceeding ten minutes. This extensive vocal range is possible because the catbird’s syrinx, or vocal organ, allows it to produce two sounds simultaneously.
Other Catbird Vocalizations
The Gray Catbird uses other distinct calls for communication. It produces a harsh “chek-chek-chek” sound, also known as a ratchet call, which functions as a high-intensity alarm. This chattering call is heard when the bird is chasing predators or intruders from its territory.
Another common vocalization is a softer “quirt” call. This low-pitched sound serves as a low-intensity alarm call and is also used during flight, possibly to maintain contact with other birds, especially during migration. These calls provide context about the catbird’s immediate environment or behavior, distinct from its more elaborate songs.
Tips for Identifying Catbird Sounds
Identifying Gray Catbird sounds in the wild begins with listening for its unique “mew” call, which is often the first indication of its presence. This sound is distinct and can help pinpoint the bird, even when it is concealed in dense foliage. Once the “mew” is recognized, attention can shift to its songs.
To distinguish a catbird’s song from those of other mimics like mockingbirds, listen for the lack of consistent repetition. Catbirds sing phrases only once, creating a more jumbled and less structured melody compared to the repetitive patterns of mockingbirds. Catbirds prefer habitats with dense shrubbery, thickets, and gardens, so focusing listening efforts in these areas can increase the chances of hearing them. Online sound libraries can also help in familiarizing oneself with catbird vocalizations.