The rufous-tailed robin is a small passerine bird. Its breeding range extends from southern Siberia and the Sea of Okhotsk to southern China and southeastern Asia.
Region
East Asia and Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Breeds from southern Siberia and the Russian Far East through northeast China in dense coniferous and mixed forests with lush understory. Prefers shady thickets, streamside shrubs, and damp forest floors during the breeding season. In winter it moves to southern China and mainland Southeast Asia, occupying bamboo, secondary growth, forest edges, and dense scrub. It tolerates lightly disturbed habitats and parks if heavy cover is available. During migration it often pauses in any dense low vegetation, including gardens and hedgerows.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2200 m
Climate Zone
Other
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Formerly placed in the genus Luscinia, the rufous-tailed robin is now classified in Larvivora. It is a shy, ground-loving skulker whose warm rufous tail is a key field mark. Its rich, melodious song recalls nightingales, but it keeps to dense cover and is more often heard than seen.
Temperament
shy and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low over the ground
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs during the breeding season. Nests low in shrubs or on the ground in dense cover; the cup nest holds a small clutch. The male sings from concealed perches and defends a modest territory. Outside breeding, it remains solitary and elusive.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
A rich, sweet, and melodious series of whistles and trills, reminiscent of a nightingale but softer and more subdued. Calls include sharp ticks and thin seep notes from within cover.
