The masked laughingthrush is a species of laughingthrush found in China and Vietnam. It is often seen in small noisy flocks of seven. Its Chinese name qī zǐ-mèi means 'seven brothers and sisters'.
Region
South China and northern Indochina
Typical Environment
Occurs from southeastern and south-central China into northern Vietnam, inhabiting forest edges, secondary growth, scrub, bamboo thickets, plantations, and urban parks. It prefers dense understorey and hedgerows where it can move low and concealed. The species adapts well to disturbed habitats and rural villages. It forages both on the ground and in low shrubs, often near cover.
Altitude Range
0–1600 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Masked laughingthrushes are sociable birds that often travel in small, noisy parties—hence the Chinese nickname meaning 'seven brothers and sisters.' They thrive in edge habitats and human-modified landscapes like parks and orchards. Formerly placed in the genus Garrulax, they are now commonly treated under Pterorhinus. Their varied, laughing calls are frequently delivered antiphonally by group members.
Eggs, MHNT
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in small, cohesive groups that move through dense cover while calling to stay in contact. Pairs nest in dense shrubs or thickets, building a cup-shaped nest. Both sexes participate in rearing young, and groups may roost communally.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocal repertoire includes loud, laughing chatters, whistles, and harsh scolds. Groups often engage in antiphonal duets and choruses, creating a lively, cascading sound.
Plumage
Overall warm brown to dark brown with a contrasting dark facial 'mask'; underparts slightly paler and sometimes buffy. Long, graduated tail and soft, loose-textured plumage typical of laughingthrushes.
Diet
Eats a varied diet of insects and other small invertebrates gleaned from leaf litter and low foliage. Also takes fruits and berries, especially when insects are less abundant. Will occasionally sample seeds and small invertebrates disturbed by human activity or livestock.
Preferred Environment
Typically forages on or near the ground in dense shrubbery, bamboo, and hedgerows. Readily exploits edges of secondary forest, plantations, orchards, and suburban parks.
