Eastern Towhees are beautiful birds that seem to love our front yard and our side yards, but have been difficult to lure into the backyard. I think there’s just too much of a crowd for their liking!
Well, I was on the back deck the other day (and I promise I had not been nipping the eggnog) when I decided to do my best Towhee imitation with the hopes they would take it as an invitation to join me. I’ll go ahead and admit that I was rather surprised when a few moments later a female showed up…
…followed by two fellas that proceeded to forage in the leaf litter.
One of the males then flew over to the fountain area for a sip and a dip.
Aren’t their color tones and markings lovely – especially when bedazzled with water droplets!
I’m pretty sure I’m gonna start calling them every time I go out now!
Backyard Bird Nerd 
Wow. Is there a more timid creature than the Towhee? I mean, they are gifted with very bold and striking markings–colours any Jay would delight in flaunting in self-gratulating Jay style–yet hide out under branches and dart fearfully about, the males only appearing when the slightly-more daring females risk making an appearance. They redefine the word timid! But how beautifully you’ve revealed them here.
What a beautifully written comment!
You clearly are a talented towhee caller! I love the expression on the finches waiting a turn at the birdbath. The almost look like they are frowning impatiently!
They did look a little put out, didn’t they!
Ooooo! Fabulous. Great job calling out for these visitors!