The California Towhee, often called “Cal-toe” by birders, is a large sparrow commonly found in Southern California. Both males and females look identical. They spend most of their time on the ground, scratching with both feet simultaneously to find bugs, worms, and other preferred foods. These birds are quite brave and not easily frightened. At first glance, they might seem like typical “little brown birds,” but a closer look reveals a rusty red patch under their long tail (the rump) and a unique feather pattern around their eyes that can give them a slightly tired appearance.
