The Bismarck island thrush, is a species of passerine in the family Turdidae. It is endemic to islands in Papua New Guinea. It was formerly considered to be multiple subspecies of the island thrush, until 2024 when the island thrush was split into 17 species by the IOC and Clements checklist.
Region
Southwest Pacific (Bismarck Archipelago)
Typical Environment
Occurs in primary and secondary rainforest from lowlands up into montane zones, favoring dense understory and mossy forest. It also uses forest edges, overgrown clearings, and, on some islands, shaded gardens near intact forest. The species forages largely on the ground and in low shrubs, often along quiet forest trails and stream margins. In areas lacking competitor thrushes, it may descend closer to sea level; where other frugivores are common, it is more montane.
Altitude Range
0–2200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Bismarck island thrush is a member of the Turdidae that inhabits the Bismarck Archipelago of Papua New Guinea. It was formerly treated within the widespread Island Thrush complex (Turdus poliocephalus) but was recognized as a distinct species in 2024 by the IOC and Clements checklists. Like many island thrushes, it shows notable plumage variation among islands and is an important disperser of native forest fruits. It typically keeps to dense forest and is more often heard than seen as it forages quietly on the forest floor.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct flights through understory
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, becoming territorial during the breeding season. Builds a neat cup nest placed in low trees or dense shrubs, often near clearings. Clutch size is small, and both parents contribute to feeding the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A mellow, fluted series of clear whistles and short phrases delivered from a concealed perch, with pauses between stanzas. Calls include thin tseep or soft chuck notes when alarmed or in contact with a mate.
Plumage
Variable but typically sooty-brown to blackish above with plainer underparts that may show a warmer brown or faint rufous wash; some populations show subtle scaling on the throat and breast.
Diet
Feeds on a mix of insects, earthworms, and other invertebrates gleaned from leaf litter and low foliage. Also consumes a variety of forest fruits and berries, especially when invertebrates are less abundant. Occasionally takes small snails and seeds, helping disperse native plants.
Preferred Environment
Forages on the forest floor and in the lower understory, often along edges of trails, streams, and in dense tangles. Uses fruiting trees and shrubs within intact forest and adjacent secondary growth.
