The New Britain thrush is a species of bird in the thrush family Turdidae. It is found in the montane forests on the Papua New Guinean islands of New Britain and Umboi.
Region
Bismarck Archipelago
Typical Environment
Occurs in montane and upper hill rainforests on New Britain and nearby Umboi (Siassi) Island. It favors dense, mossy understory and mature evergreen forest with thick leaf litter. Birds are most often encountered along shaded slopes, ravines, and near forest streams. It rarely uses heavily disturbed habitats and is uncommon in lowland areas. Forest edges and secondary growth are used sparingly when adjacent to intact canopy.
Altitude Range
800–2000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Named after the Talasea Peninsula on New Britain, this shy forest thrush is often detected by its clear, fluted song rather than seen. It forages quietly on the leaf-littered forest floor. The species has sometimes been treated in Zoothera in older literature.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, keeping close to dense understory cover. Nests are likely cup-shaped structures placed low in vegetation or on ledges, built from moss and rootlets. Breeding behavior is discreet, with adults moving quietly to and from nest sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, melodious whistles and fluty phrases delivered from concealed perches, especially at dawn and dusk. Calls include thin, high tsip notes when alarmed or in contact.
