The grandala is a species of bird in the thrush family Turdidae. It is the only species placed in the genus Grandala. It is an arboreal insectivore. It ranges across the northeastern Indian Subcontinent and some adjoining regions, existing primarily in the low-to-mid altitudes of the Himalayas. It is found in Bhutan, India, Myanmar, and Nepal, as well as Tibet and other areas of China.
Region
Himalayas and Tibetan Plateau
Typical Environment
Found from the northeastern Indian Subcontinent through Bhutan and Nepal into Tibet and western China (e.g., Qinghai, Sichuan, Yunnan), with occurrences in northern Myanmar and northeastern India. It favors alpine and subalpine zones, including open conifer edges, rhododendron and juniper scrub, scree slopes, and cliffy ridgelines. During winter and bad weather it descends to lower montane valleys and forest edges. Breeding occurs in rugged, sparsely vegetated terrain with abundant rock faces and scattered shrubs.
Altitude Range
2800–5200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The grandala is the sole member of its genus and is famed for the male’s vivid cobalt-blue plumage, which stands out against high Himalayan landscapes. It often forms sizeable, fast-moving flocks outside the breeding season. The species undertakes altitudinal movements, descending to lower slopes in winter and during storms. Its flycatcher-like feeding style makes it an eye-catching aerial insect hunter along cliffs and alpine ridges.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
swift, direct flight with rapid wingbeats along ridgelines and cliffs
Social Behavior
Outside breeding, grandalas gather in conspicuous flocks that roam widely over alpine slopes. During the breeding season they form monogamous pairs and defend nesting sites on cliffs or rocky ledges. Nests are placed in crevices or holes and lined with grasses and moss.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a thin, tinkling series of warbles and trills delivered from perches or in short song-flights. Calls include sharp, high tsip and tsee notes used to keep contact within roaming flocks.
