The Gray Catbird is native to most of temperate North America east of the Rocky Mountains, and migrate to the southeastern United States, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean in the winter. The catbird tends to avoid dense, unbroken woodlands, and does not inhabit coniferous, pine woodland. Catbirds prefer a dense vegetative substrate, especially if thorny vegetation is present. The Gray Catbird was named for its mewing call, although few people would mistake the sound of this bird for that of an actual cat. Part of this ability stems from the structure of its syrinx. Because both sides of this vocal organ are able to operate independently, the Gray Catbird can sing with two voices at the same time.