The Amami thrush is a member of the thrush family Turdidae. It is endemic to the islands of Amami Ōshima and Kakeroma island in the northern Nansei Islands of Japan.
Region
Amami Islands, Nansei (Ryukyu) Islands, Japan
Typical Environment
Occurs only on Amami Ōshima and Kakeroma in subtropical evergreen broadleaf forest. It favors old-growth stands with dense understory and deep leaf litter for probing. Moist ravines, shaded slopes, and streamside gullies are especially important. The species keeps to interior forest away from heavy disturbance and avoids open habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 700 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A shy, ground-foraging thrush, the Amami thrush lives only on Amami Ōshima and nearby Kakeroma in Japan’s northern Ryukyu (Nansei) Islands. It relies on mature subtropical evergreen forests with deep leaf litter. Predation by introduced mongooses and habitat loss have been major threats, though control programs have improved conditions. Its rich, fluted dawn song is often heard far more than the bird is seen.
Temperament
secretive and wary
Flight Pattern
short, strong bursts through understory; usually flies low between cover
Social Behavior
Mostly solitary or in pairs during the breeding season. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low to mid-level in trees or dense shrubs. Likely monogamous, with small clutches and both parents involved in care. Forages quietly on the ground, freezing when disturbed before flushing to cover.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rich, fluted series of clear, melancholy whistles delivered at dawn and dusk from concealed perches. Calls include thin tseep notes and soft chucks when alarmed.
