The Aztec thrush is a species of bird in the family Turdidae. It is found mainly in Mexico, but vagrants are occasionally seen in the United States. Its natural habitat is montane forests. The IUCN Red List denotes it as a least-concern species.
Region
Mexican Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs in the mountainous regions of central and western Mexico, especially in pine–oak, fir, and cloud forest mosaics. It uses forest interiors, edges, and ravines, often concentrating where fruiting trees are available. During some seasons it descends locally to slightly lower elevations following food resources. Vagrants are rarely recorded in the southwestern United States.
Altitude Range
1500–3500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Aztec thrush is a striking, highland thrush of Mexico and the sole member of its genus, Ridgwayia. It frequents fruiting trees in montane pine–oak and fir forests and can appear suddenly in small groups when food is abundant. Though generally elusive, it sometimes joins mixed-species flocks. Vagrants occasionally reach the southwestern United States after post-breeding movements.
Temperament
shy and wary
Flight Pattern
direct flight with steady, rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in small groups, sometimes associating with mixed-species flocks at fruiting trees. Breeding pairs nest in trees, placing a cup nest on a horizontal branch in conifer or oak. Both adults participate in caring for the young.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a soft, fluty series of clear, sweet phrases delivered from a concealed perch. Calls include thin, high tseep notes and soft tucks given while foraging.
