The Cuban solitaire, also known as the Cuban nightingale, is a species of bird in the family Turdidae. It is endemic to Cuba.
Region
Caribbean
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid and semi-humid montane forests, limestone mogote woodlands, and mature evergreen forests with dense undergrowth. It favors ravines, forest edges, and areas with abundant fruiting trees and shrubs. The species is typically found in relatively undisturbed habitats but may visit shady plantations adjacent to native forest. It perches quietly in the midstory and understory and often remains motionless for long periods.
Altitude Range
200–1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the Cuban nightingale, this thrush is renowned for its clear, flute-like song that carries far through the forest. It is shy and often stays concealed in dense foliage, revealing itself more by voice than by sight. By consuming many native fruits, it plays an important role in seed dispersal and forest regeneration.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen alone or in pairs during the breeding season, defending territories in dense forest. Nests are cup-shaped and placed well-concealed in vegetation or natural cavities; clutches are small. Both adults participate in feeding the nestlings. Outside breeding, it remains unobtrusive and secretive.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rich, melodious series of clear, flute-like whistles and phrases delivered at a measured pace. The song carries over long distances and is often given from a shaded perch at dawn and dusk.
Plumage
Soft gray-brown upperparts with a pale gray throat and breast fading to whitish on the belly; subtle warm-brown tones in the wings and tail. Feathers appear smooth and unpatterned, giving a clean, sleek look.
Diet
Primarily eats small native fruits and berries, swallowing them whole and later dispersing the seeds. It supplements its diet with insects and other small invertebrates gleaned from leaves and branches or taken by short sallies. Seasonal availability of fruit influences local movements and foraging intensity.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the understory and midstory of moist forest, along shaded trails, ravines, and forest edges. Frequently visits fruiting trees and shrubs and may feed quietly within dense foliage.
