Fraser's rufous thrush, also known as the rufous flycatcher-thrush, is a species of bird in the thrush family.
Region
West Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs primarily in the Upper Guinean rainforests from Sierra Leone and Liberia through Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana, with the range tapering toward western Nigeria and largely absent across the Dahomey Gap. It inhabits primary and well-regenerated secondary lowland forests, forest edges, and riparian thickets. The species keeps close to dense understory and tangles, often near shaded trails and streams. It may venture into selectively logged forest where sufficient cover remains.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Fraser's rufous thrush, also called the rufous flycatcher-thrush, often behaves like a flycatcher, sallying from low perches to snatch insects. It is sometimes placed in the genus Neocossyphus and has a close relative, Finsch's flycatcher-thrush, with which it was once lumped. Its clear, fluty whistles carry well through dense forest understory.
Temperament
secretive and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick sallies from low perches
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs in dense understory, occasionally joining mixed-species flocks. Breeding involves a cup-shaped nest placed low in vegetation, with both parents involved in provisioning. Territorial during the breeding season but otherwise unobtrusive.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, fluty whistles and mellow phrases, often repeated and carrying far through the forest. Calls include thin seep notes and soft chups, delivered from concealed perches at mid to lower levels.
Plumage
Fairly uniform rufous to cinnamon-brown upperparts with slightly paler, warmer-toned underparts; wings and tail a shade darker. Plumage lacks the heavy spotting typical of many thrushes, appearing smooth and even. Throat can be a touch paler and the face rather plain.
Diet
Primarily feeds on insects such as beetles, ants, termites, caterpillars, and spiders, taken by gleaning from foliage and leaf litter or by short aerial sallies. Occasionally supplements diet with small fruits or berries when available. Foraging is deliberate, focusing on shady, covered microhabitats.
Preferred Environment
Forages in dense understory of primary and mature secondary forest, along shaded trails, and near streams. Frequently hunts from low perches, dropping to the ground or making short flights to capture prey.
