Fiji island thrush is a species of passerine in the thrush family Turdidae that is endemic to Fiji. It was formerly considered a subspecies of island thrush, but in 2024 the island thrush was split into 17 separate species by the IOC and Clements Checklist based on morphological and phylogenetics differences.
Region
Fiji Islands
Typical Environment
Found in moist upland and cloud forests on larger Fijian islands, especially in mossy, mature forest with dense understory. It frequents forest edges and interior, often along ridges and near streams. The species may use selectively logged or secondary growth when cover remains intact, but favors undisturbed montane habitat. It is primarily terrestrial while foraging but uses mid-storey perches for singing and vigilance.
Altitude Range
400–1300 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Fiji island thrush is a recently recognized species split from the widespread island thrush complex in 2024 based on morphology and genetics. It inhabits Fiji’s upland forests and is typically shy, foraging quietly on the forest floor. Like many Turdus thrushes, it plays an important role in seed dispersal and insect control.
Temperament
shy and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low through understory
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, sometimes with dependent juveniles. Nests are cup-shaped and placed in shrubs or small trees; typical clutches are small. Pairs defend territories in the breeding season and may join loose mixed-species flocks when not breeding.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A mellow, fluty series of whistles and short phrases, delivered from concealed perches. Calls include soft tuks and thin seep notes when alarmed or in contact.
Plumage
Mostly dark brown to sooty-brown above with paler brown underparts; plumage appears soft and uniform with minimal streaking. Subtle contrast between slightly darker head and mantle and lighter belly is typical.
Diet
Eats insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates gleaned from leaf litter and understory foliage. Also takes fallen and tree-borne fruits, and occasionally small snails or worms. Its omnivorous diet shifts seasonally with fruit availability.
Preferred Environment
Forages mainly on the forest floor and low understory, often flipping leaves to uncover prey. Frequently feeds along trails, stream margins, and dense thickets where cover is ample.
