We had such a strong response to last month’s catbird feature, we decided to talk about another favorite bird of ours. The noisy ovenbird is one you’ve probably heard—its call is hard to miss—but couldn’t identify. Here are some fun facts about a loud and feisty bird. (And follow us on Facebook or Instagram to see our weekly Bird Facts Friday feature.)
Appearance
The ovenbird is best recognized by its mottled brown breast and copper-colored head stripe flanked by dark brown. Its wings are a chestnut brown and its underparts are cream-colored.
Name
The ovenbird gets its name from its unique nest. Ovenbirds build dome-shaped structures that sit on the ground. These nests have a single opening and resemble primitive clay ovens.
Noisy Ovenbird
Ovenbirds are incredibly loud for their size. Their famous call sounds like “teacher-teacher-teacher!” These noisy ovenbirds use this vocalization to stake territory.
Ovenbirds are a Challenge to Catch
Ovenbirds are a challenge to catch. In stores, these birds behave like sparrows. They can roost high in the rafters, then suddenly swoop low to the ground to feed. They are quick, skittish birds–agile and excellent at dodging capture.
Inspired a Poem
The ovenbird is the subject of a Robert Frost poem. The 1916 poem “The Oven Bird” begins “There is a singer everyone has heard / Loud, a mid-summer and a mid-wood bird…”
Want to learn more? Download the Ovenbird Flyer here.