catbird

North American catbird (Dumetella carolinensis).

catbird, any of five bird species named for their mewing calls, which are used in addition to song. The North American catbird (Dumetella carolinensis), of the family Mimidae (order Passeriformes), is 23 cm (9 inches) long and is gray, with a black cap. It frequents gardens and thickets. The black catbird (Melanoptila glabrirostris) is found in coastal Yucatán.

The three species of the genus Ailuroedus, of the bowerbird family (Ptilonorhynchidae), are also called catbirds. These green birds occur in Australia, New Guinea, and nearby islands. The male does not build a bower but holds territory in the forest by loud singing. For the related tooth-billed catbird, see bowerbird.