The bare-eyed thrush is a species of bird in the family Turdidae. It is found in Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, and Tanzania.
Region
Horn of Africa and East African coast
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Ethiopia and Somalia south through eastern Kenya into northeastern Tanzania. It favors dry to semi-arid habitats including acacia-Commiphora scrub, thorn woodland, coastal thickets, and edges of cultivated areas. Often found near dense shrubs, riparian thickets, and garden hedges where cover is available. Typically forages on or near the ground but will also visit fruiting bushes. Uses human-modified habitats when sufficient cover and water are present.
Altitude Range
0–1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The bare-eyed thrush is a Turdidae thrush of the Horn of Africa and coastal East Africa, notable for its conspicuous patch of bare yellow skin around the eye. It frequents dry bush, thickets, and acacia savanna, often staying low and slipping between cover. Its mellow, fluty song carries at dawn after seasonal rains. Like many thrushes, it helps disperse seeds while also controlling insects.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and direct between cover
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups. Territorial during breeding, with pairs nesting in a neat cup of plant fibers placed low in a shrub or small tree. Breeding often follows seasonal rains, and both parents feed the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A mellow, fluty series of phrases and whistles, often delivered from a semi-concealed perch at dawn and dusk. Includes soft chuck notes and thin tseep calls when alarmed. Song is variable and can incorporate mimicry of nearby species.
