The Ecuadorian thrush is a resident bird found in western South America in western Ecuador and far northwestern Peru. It was formerly considered to be a subspecies of the spectacled thrush, Turdus nudigenis, but has a narrower eyering, and is widely separated in range.
Region
Western South America
Typical Environment
Found from western Ecuador into far northwestern Peru, mainly in the Tumbesian lowlands and foothills. It frequents semi-open habitats such as forest edges, second growth, riparian thickets, gardens, and agricultural mosaics. The species tolerates human presence and is common in towns and plantations. It forages from the ground into the mid-story, especially where fruiting trees and leaf litter are abundant.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Ecuadorian thrush is a close relative of the spectacled thrush but has a distinctly narrower, pale eyering and occurs well to the south of that species’ range. It thrives in human-altered landscapes, often frequenting gardens and orchards. By consuming fruits, it plays an important role in seed dispersal in the Tumbesian region.
Temperament
alert but fairly confiding in disturbed habitats
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct flight
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, joining small loose groups at fruiting trees. Builds a cup nest in shrubs or low trees; both parents typically tend the young. Territorial during breeding but tolerant around rich food sources.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A mellow, thrush-like series of clear whistles and phrases, most often delivered at dawn and dusk. Calls include soft chucks and thin seep notes when alarmed.
Plumage
Plain olive-brown to brown upperparts with slightly paler gray-brown underparts; throat often a bit paler with faint streaking. Tail and wings are brown, with minimal contrast. A narrow pale eyering is present.
Diet
Eats a mix of small fruits and invertebrates such as beetles, caterpillars, spiders, and earthworms. Often flips leaf litter on the ground to uncover prey. Takes advantage of fruiting native and cultivated trees, aiding seed dispersal.
Preferred Environment
Forages on lawns, along paths, and in leaf-littered understory at forest edges and second growth. Also feeds in orchards, shade coffee, and urban gardens where fruiting shrubs are present.
