Izu Thrush

Overview

The Izu thrush, or Izu Islands thrush (Turdus celaenops), is a bird of the thrush family native to Japan. It is classified as a vulnerable species on the IUCN Red List, with a decreasing population of between 2,500 and 9,999 mature individuals.

Identification

• Approximately 23 cm long with black back and tail, brown wings, and a rust-red chest.
• Features a yellow eye-ring and bill.
• Males possess darker plumage than females.
• Song described as 'kyurrr, chotts' and calls as 'tweet' or 'chat, chat, chat', with syllable counts varying by island population.

Habitat

This endemic Japanese bird is primarily found on the Izu Islands, including Izu Ōshima, Miyakejima, and Mikurajima, as well as the Tokara Islands such as Yakushima and Kuchinoshima. Wintering records have also been documented in Shizuoka, Chiba, Mie, and Wakayama Prefectures.

Diet

Izu thrushes feed on small animals such as earthworms and insects, alongside fruits like cherries and mullberries.

Did you know?

The fledgling rate has significantly decreased since the introduction of weasels to their habitat.