Spot-winged Thrush

Overview

The spot-winged thrush (Geokichla spiloptera) is an Asian thrush and an endemic resident breeder in Sri Lanka. It is currently classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Medium-sized thrush measuring 21 to 23 cm in length and weighing 70 g.
• Light brown upperparts with a double wing bar of white spots; pale face featuring two dark bars.
• White underparts with heavy spotting, a black bill, and yellow legs.
• Song is described as a rich and varied whistling.

Habitat

Breeds in hill rainforests and to a lesser extent in drier woodlands at altitudes between 500 and 2000 m. Wintering areas are similar but include less well-wooded habitats at 750 to 1500 m altitude. The bird favours dense undergrowth and bamboo clumps.

Diet

Omnivorous, though it consumes significantly more insects than fruit. Foraging occurs on the ground.

Did you know?

The species is known as Pulli Wal Awichchiya in the Sinhala language. It raises two broods each year, placing loose cup nests lined with vegetation in tree forks.