Variegated Laughingthrush

Overview

The variegated laughingthrush (Trochalopteron variegatum) is a medium-sized bird in the family Leiothrichidae. It is currently classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Medium-sized, typically measuring 24-26 cm in length and weighing 57-79 g.
• Overall olive and buffy plumage with a distinctive black stripe down the centre of the throat.
• T. v. variegatum features yellow primary and secondary feathers with cinnamon-tipped greater coverts, while T. v. simile has grey primary and secondary feathers.
• Large tail with a grey subterminal band and white tip; black facial area broken by a white eye-ring.

Habitat

Endemic to the northern regions of the Indian subcontinent, this species primarily inhabits the low-to-mid altitudes of the Himalayas. Its range spans across Bhutan, India, Nepal, and Tibet.