The Chiguanco thrush is a species of bird in the family Turdidae. It is found from Ecuador and the Altiplano south to Argentina. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical high-altitude shrubland and heavily degraded former forest.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Ecuador through Peru and Bolivia to northern Chile and northwestern Argentina. It inhabits highland shrublands, forest edge, Polylepis patches, puna margins, agricultural mosaics, and urban parks. The species is notably tolerant of degraded habitats and human proximity. It forages on the ground in open areas and along hedgerows, often near buildings and roads.
Altitude Range
1500–4200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Chiguanco thrush is a hardy Andean resident that readily uses human-altered landscapes, often foraging on lawns and in gardens of highland towns. It is frequently confused with the larger Great Thrush, but Chiguanco is smaller and darker, with a bright yellow bill and eye-ring in males. Its name derives from Andean vernacular and it is among the most familiar thrushes of the Altiplano. Pairs are commonly seen year-round and defend small territories during breeding.
Temperament
confiding and adaptable
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct, low flights
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs; small loose groups may form at rich food sources. Builds a cup-shaped nest in shrubs, trees, or structures; both sexes participate in care. Territorial during breeding, but tolerant of conspecifics in nonbreeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A mellow, fluty series of phrases delivered from exposed perches, especially at dawn and dusk. Calls include a sharp 'tchik' or 'chack' and softer contact notes.
Plumage
Overall sooty-brown to blackish plumage with a plain, matte appearance; underparts slightly paler and unmarked. Feathers lack strong gloss, giving a dusky look compared with similar species.
Diet
Eats insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates taken from the ground and leaf litter. Also consumes berries and small fruits, particularly in the dry season when insects are less available. Will glean larvae from low vegetation and occasionally takes worms and snails.
Preferred Environment
Forages in open ground of gardens, lawns, agricultural fields, and along paths and edges of shrublands. Often feeds near human habitation and in parkland with scattered trees and hedges.
