The blackthroat, also known as the black-throated robin or black-throated blue robin, is a species of bird in the family Muscicapidae. It breeds in north-central China but its wintering grounds are uncertain. It has been recorded as a vagrant in northwest Thailand. Its natural habitat is bamboo thickets within coniferous forest at altitudes of 3000–3,400 metres. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Central China with rare vagrancy to mainland Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Breeds in subalpine coniferous forests with dense bamboo undergrowth, typically on steep, cool, north-facing slopes. It favors damp thickets, forest edges, and ravines where bamboo forms a dense understory. In the nonbreeding season it likely descends to lower-elevation evergreen or mixed forests with thick shrub layers, though details are poorly documented. Records as a vagrant come from northwestern Thailand and nearby areas.
Altitude Range
500–3400 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The male Blackthroat is striking, with a jet-black throat and face set against cold blue upperparts, while females are plain brown and easily overlooked. It breeds in remote montane bamboo within coniferous forests in north-central China and is notoriously elusive. Its wintering grounds remain poorly known, and it is only occasionally observed as a vagrant in mainland Southeast Asia. Ongoing habitat loss and disturbance in montane forests are key threats.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs during the breeding season, keeping low in dense bamboo. Nests are placed close to the ground, concealed within thickets or at the base of shrubs. Likely monogamous, with both parents involved in rearing the young. Outside breeding, it remains secretive and is seldom seen in the open.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Song is a clear, melodious series of whistles and varied, rich phrases delivered from a low concealed perch, especially at dawn. Calls include a sharp tak and soft ticking notes when alarmed.
Plumage
Male shows a glossy black throat and face with slate-blue to bluish-grey upperparts and paler underparts; female is warm brown above with buffy underparts and a faint supercilium, lacking the male’s black throat.
Diet
Primarily hunts insects and other small invertebrates such as beetles, caterpillars, spiders, and flies. Forages by gleaning from leaf litter and low foliage and by short sallying flights to snatch prey. May occasionally take small berries when insects are scarce.
Preferred Environment
Feeds on or near the ground within dense bamboo, thickets, and damp forest edges. Often uses shaded, cluttered microhabitats such as gullies and streamside undergrowth where cover is abundant.
