The Pantepui thrush is a bird in the genus Turdus native to the tepuis of northern South America. It was previously considered conspecific with the black-billed thrush, but genetic data indicates that the two are not closely related.
Region
Pantepui, Guiana Highlands (SE Venezuela, W Guyana, N Brazil)
Typical Environment
Found on tepui slopes and summits in humid montane and elfin forests, forest edges, and tall second growth. It frequents gaps and along forested streams where fruiting trees are common. The species is patchily distributed, following suitable cool, wet highland habitats across the Guiana Shield. It may descend slightly to foothills where continuous forest persists, but remains tied to montane conditions.
Altitude Range
900–2200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Pantepui thrush inhabits the isolated tepui highlands of the Guiana Shield, where cool, misty forests cloak table-top mountains. It was formerly lumped with the black-billed thrush, but genetic studies show they are not closely related. By consuming fruits and dispersing seeds, it helps regenerate montane forest patches around the tepuis.
Temperament
shy and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short, direct flights with rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, foraging quietly in the understory and on the forest floor. Builds a cup-shaped nest in shrubs or small trees, often concealed in dense vegetation. Clutches are small, and both parents participate in feeding the nestlings.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A mellow, fluted series of clear whistles delivered from semi-concealed perches, most active at dawn and dusk. Calls include soft tchuk notes and thin, sibilant seets used for contact.
