Black-breasted Thrush

Overview

The Turdus dissimilis, commonly known as the black-breasted thrush, is a species of bird in the family Turdidae. It is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, although its population has been declining due to habitat destruction.

Identification

• Males feature a black head, neck, and breast, contrasting with slate gray upper parts, while females are predominantly grey-brown with a diffused buff throat and breast.
• Adults measure between 22 and 23.5 cm in length, including the tail.
• The call is described as "sweet mellow" and melodious, consisting of musical phrases of 3 to 8 notes.

Habitat

Found from north-eastern India to northern Vietnam, this thrush primarily inhabits tropical and subtropical montane forests that are moist. It typically occupies elevations between 1,220 and 2,500 metres, though it descends to around 200 metres during winter. Secondary habitats include dry forests, moist shrubland, mangroves above high tide, and hilly areas in southwestern China.

Diet

The species consumes insects, molluscs, and berries, typically foraging on the ground but occasionally flying to fruit trees to gather food.

Did you know?

Despite a steady population decline over the last decade attributed to habitat destruction, the species remains in the Least Concern category because the reduction is not swift enough to meet the threshold for Vulnerable status.