The chestnut-backed thrush is a ground thrush species endemic to Lombok, Timor and the Lesser Sunda Islands in Indonesia. The species is rapidly declining and it is already extinct on Lombok and possibly on Lesser Sunda.
Region
Lesser Sunda Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs in moist lowland and foothill evergreen forest, selectively logged forest, and dense secondary growth with a well-developed leaf-litter layer. It prefers shaded ravines, bamboo thickets, and interior forest rather than edges or open country. The species formerly occurred on Lombok, where it is now probably extirpated, and persists in parts of Sumbawa and Flores where suitable habitat remains. It avoids degraded scrub and agricultural land and is highly sensitive to disturbance.
Altitude Range
0–1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A secretive ground-thrush of Indonesia’s Lesser Sundas, it forages by flicking leaf litter to expose hidden prey. It has declined steeply from habitat loss and trapping for the cage-bird trade, and is likely extirpated from Lombok. Remaining populations persist in suitable forest on nearby islands. Its taxonomy has been placed in both Zoothera and Geokichla in different treatments.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between low perches
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, keeping close to the forest floor. Nests are neat cups placed low in vegetation or on ledges, with a small clutch. Breeding is thought to coincide with wetter months when invertebrate prey is abundant.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, fluted whistles interspersed with softer, mellow phrases. The song is delivered from a concealed perch and may be repeated with slight variations.
Plumage
Rich chestnut upperparts contrast with striking black-and-white patterned underparts; the breast shows bold black markings over a white base with cleaner white belly. The head and throat are dark, setting off the paler face markings, and the wings appear darker against the chestnut mantle. Feathers are smooth and sleek, with a crisp, high-contrast pattern typical of Geokichla thrushes.
Diet
Feeds mainly on ground-dwelling invertebrates such as beetles, ants, spiders, snails, and earthworms. It also takes small fruits and berries, especially when invertebrates are less available. Foraging involves deliberate hops with leaf-litter flicking to uncover prey.
Preferred Environment
Forages on the shaded forest floor, along trails, ravines, and under dense understory. It favors intact or lightly logged forest with deep leaf litter and ample cover.
