The robin accentor is a species of bird in the family Prunellidae. It is found in the mountainous regions of Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bhutan and China, at altitudes between about 3,000 and 5,500 m. It is a brown bird with a grey head and an orange-red breast. It is common in parts of its range and its conservation status has been assessed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature as being of "least concern".
Region
Himalayas and Tibetan Plateau
Typical Environment
Occupies alpine and subalpine zones from Afghanistan and Pakistan across India, Nepal, and Bhutan to western and central China. Prefers rocky slopes, boulder-strewn gullies, dwarf juniper and rhododendron scrub, and open alpine meadows near the snowline. During the non-breeding season it moves downslope to subalpine scrub, open pastures, and edge habitats near settlements. It typically keeps close to the ground and uses low shrubs and rocks for cover.
Altitude Range
3000–5500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The robin accentor is a high-altitude songbird that often breeds near the snowline, among the highest elevations used by any passerine. In winter it descends to lower valleys and may forage around mountain villages. Its bright, robin-like rufous breast and clear, tinkling song make it distinctive in alpine scrub. Sexes are similar, and it is generally confiding where not disturbed.
Robin Accentor Male at Gnathang Valley, in East Sikkim, India
Temperament
shy to moderately confiding, often skulking low
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and direct over ground
Social Behavior
Breeds in pairs with a cup nest placed low in dense scrub or among rocks. Outside the breeding season it forages singly or in small loose groups. Territorial during breeding, but more tolerant of conspecifics in winter.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A clear, sweet, robin-like warble of thin, tinkling phrases delivered from a low perch or rock. Calls include sharp, thin tseep notes and soft contact chips.
Plumage
Warm brown upperparts with fine darker streaking, a clean grey head, and a rich rufous-orange breast blending into the flanks with a paler belly. Wings and tail are brown with subtle pale edging; overall appearance is neat and smooth-textured.
Diet
Feeds chiefly on insects and other small invertebrates gleaned from the ground, rock crevices, and low vegetation. In autumn and winter it supplements with seeds and small berries. It probes among leaf litter and turf mats, often picking methodically while moving low and quietly.
Preferred Environment
Forages in alpine meadows, rhododendron and juniper scrub, rocky scree, and edges of snowfields. In winter it may feed along paths, yak pastures, and around human habitation in mountain valleys.
