The grey laughingthrush is a species of bird in the family Leiothrichidae. It is found in southern China, far northern Laos and Vietnam. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest and subtropical or tropical moist montane forest.
Region
South China and northern Indochina
Typical Environment
Occurs in southern China and extends into far northern Laos and Vietnam. It inhabits evergreen broadleaf forests, secondary growth, bamboo thickets, and shrubby edges. The species favors dense understory near forest margins, ravines, and streamside thickets. It adapts to lightly disturbed habitats and can be found in tea and shrub plantations adjacent to forest.
Altitude Range
0–2000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The grey laughingthrush is a skulking, ground-frequenting babbler of dense thickets and forest edges. It moves in chattering family parties, often forming mixed flocks with other undergrowth birds. Its rich, laughing calls carry far through the forest and are used for contact and group cohesion. Taxonomically it has been placed in Garrulax, but is now commonly treated in Pterorhinus.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found in small, noisy groups that move low through dense vegetation. Pairs maintain contact with antiphonal calls and may remain together year-round. Nests are typically cup-shaped and placed low in thickets, with both parents participating in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are rich, laughing chuckles interspersed with whistles and harsh chatters. Groups often call responsively, creating a chorus that can sound like laughter from the understory.
Plumage
Mostly plain grey to brownish-grey with slightly warmer, rufous-tinged wings and tail edges; underparts paler grey. Texture is smooth with minimal spotting or streaking, giving a uniform look in the shade.
Diet
Takes a wide range of invertebrates such as beetles, caterpillars, ants, and small snails gleaned from leaf litter and low foliage. Supplements with fruits and berries, especially in non-breeding seasons. Will also peck at seeds and small plant matter when insects are scarce.
Preferred Environment
Feeds close to the ground in dense understory, forest edges, bamboo clumps, and along shaded trails. Frequently forages in family parties, turning leaves and probing crevices for prey.
