The red-billed leiothrix is a member of the family Leiothrichidae, native to southern China and the Himalayas. Adults have bright red bills and a dull yellow ring around their eyes. Their backs are dull olive green, and they have a bright yellow-orange throat with a yellow chin; females are somewhat duller than males, and juveniles have black bills. It has also been introduced in various parts of the world, with small populations of escapees having existed in Japan since the 1980s. It has become a common cagebird and amongst aviculturists it goes by various names: Pekin robin, Pekin nightingale, Japanese nightingale, and Japanese (hill) robin, the last two being misnomers as it is not native to Japan.
Region
Himalayas and southern China
Typical Environment
Native to the Himalayan foothills and adjoining parts of southern China, extending through Nepal, Bhutan, northeast India, Myanmar, and northern Vietnam. It favors dense evergreen and mixed broadleaf forests, bamboo thickets, and shrubby secondary growth, often along forest edges and ravines. The species adapts well to disturbed habitats and gardens with dense understory. Introduced populations exist in Japan and on several Hawaiian Islands, where it occupies similar shrubby habitats.
Altitude Range
0–2600 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 3/5
Also known to aviculturists as the Pekin robin or Japanese nightingale (a misnomer, as it is not native to Japan), the red-billed leiothrix is prized for its rich, melodious song. It has been widely traded as a cagebird and has established introduced populations in several regions. In dense undergrowth it can be surprisingly skulking despite its bright bill and wing colors. In some places it is considered an invasive species due to its adaptability.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often travels in small, chattering flocks outside the breeding season, moving low through dense shrubs. Pairs form during breeding, building a neat cup nest low in thick vegetation. Both parents feed the young, and family groups may remain loosely associated after fledging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rich, flute-like series of clear whistles and varied notes, often delivered from concealed perches. Calls include soft tinks and metallic chinks; the species may incorporate mimicked phrases into its song.
