Black thrush

The black thrush is a species of bird in the family Turdidae. It was formerly known as the black robin. It is found in El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forest.

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Distribution

Region

Mesoamerican Highlands

Typical Environment

Occurs in moist montane forests from southern Mexico (Chiapas) through Guatemala and Honduras to El Salvador. Prefers cloud forests, humid pine–oak and evergreen broadleaf forests, and shaded ravines with dense understory. Often uses forest edges and secondary growth near intact habitat. Frequently forages on or near the ground within leaf litter under closed canopies.

Altitude Range

1000–3200 m

Climate Zone

Highland

Characteristics

Size22–25 cm

Wing Span34–38 cm

Male Weight0.085 kg

Female Weight0.075 kg

Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 2/5

Useful to know

The black thrush is a montane Turdus thrush of Mesoamerica, with males uniformly black and females dark brown. It skulks in dense understory and is often detected by its mellow, fluted song rather than by sight. Males and females differ markedly in plumage, which helps with field identification in dim forest light.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

shy and secretive

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats between perches

Social Behavior

Typically seen singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Builds a cup-shaped nest in shrubs or low trees; both parents participate in feeding young. Outside breeding, may join loose associations in fruiting areas but remains unobtrusive.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Song is a mellow, fluted series of clear whistles and short phrases, delivered from concealed perches. Calls include soft tchik or tsip notes given while foraging in dense cover.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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