The Curve-Billed Thrasher (Toxostoma curvirostre) is a common resident of the Sonoran Desert. It is a grayish bird with a down-curved bill, long tail and a yellow-colored eye. Its nest is generally placed within a cholla cactus where it is well protected by cactus spines. It is a rapid runner and does most of its feeding on the ground. The strong, decurved bill is used for digging into the soil for insects. Saguaro National Park Tucson, AZ.