Secretive, thicket-dwelling mimic. Common east of the Rockies in summer, and along the east coast in winter. Favors dense thickets and edge habitats. Medium-sized, all gray, with black cap and reddish-brown undertail. Distinct mewing call, as well as long, rambling songs that interweave other birds songs and can last up to 10 minutes. Feeds on insects and berries; often attracted to native berry plants. Usually nests in dense shrubs. Lifespan up to 17 years. Population ~ 10 million.