The creamy-bellied thrush is a species of bird in the family Turdidae. It occurs in a wide range of wooded habitats in a large part of central and eastern South America. It is generally common, even in human altered habitats such as gardens and parks. While the plumage varies from overall greyish to brownish, and the bill from dusky to yellow, adult creamy-breasted thrushes always have distinctive blackish lores. This separates it from other similar thrushes found in its range.
Region
Central and Eastern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs widely from lowland forests and riverine thickets to savannas, edge habitats, and secondary growth. It readily occupies human-altered environments such as orchards, parks, and suburban gardens. Often found near watercourses and in mosaic landscapes with scattered trees and shrubs. Generally common throughout its range and locally abundant in cities.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A common thrush of central and eastern South America, it thrives in both natural woodlands and urban parks and gardens. Adults are readily told from similar Turdus thrushes by their distinctive blackish lores. Its mellow, flute-like song is most prominent at dawn and dusk during the breeding season.
Temperament
adaptable and moderately shy
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct flight
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, becoming more territorial during the breeding season. Builds a cup-shaped nest in shrubs or small trees; both parents feed the young. Outside breeding, it may join loose foraging groups where food is abundant.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A mellow, flute-like series of clear whistles and phrases, often repeated with slight variations. Most vocal at dawn and dusk, with scolding calls and sharp chucks given when alarmed.
Plumage
Upperparts gray-brown to brown; underparts creamy with a lightly streaked throat and upper breast. The belly is distinctly creamy, contrasting with more dusky flanks. Texture is smooth with subtle mottling typical of Turdus thrushes.
Diet
Eats a mix of fruits and invertebrates, including berries, figs, insects, worms, and small snails. Forages by hopping on the ground, flipping leaf litter, and gleaning low vegetation. Will also take soft fallen fruit in gardens and orchards, especially in the non-breeding season.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along forest edges, riparian thickets, lawns, and garden beds with dense shrub cover. Frequently searches under trees and hedges and visits fruiting shrubs and small trees.
