White-whiskered Laughingthrush

Overview

The white-whiskered laughingthrush, also known as the Formosan laughing thrush, is a large bird in the family Leiothrichidae that is endemic to the montane forests of Taiwan. It is a sociable species that often forms large groups and shows little fear of humans.

Identification

• Measures 26 to 28 cm (10 to 11 in) in length with a mean body weight of approximately 77 grams.
• Features a distinctive face pattern, black eyes, and a thrush-like bill that is yellowish to horn-colored.
• Possesses strong, brownish pink legs.

Habitat

Found at elevations between 1,475 and 3,300 m, typically above 2,000 m, in tall grass, forest undergrowth, thickets, and forest edge scrub. It may also enter open areas such as roadsides and forest clearings, and is particularly abundant in mixed coniferous forests.

Diet

A ground omnivore that forages on the ground.

Did you know?

This species is not necessarily afraid of humans, which is relatively uncommon for a forest-dwelling bird.