The rufous-vented laughingthrush is a species of bird in the family Leiothrichidae. It is found in Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest and subtropical or tropical moist montane forest.
Region
Eastern Himalayas and Northern Indochina
Typical Environment
Occurs from the foothills and lower slopes of the eastern Himalayas through northeastern India, Bhutan, and Bangladesh into Myanmar, Laos, and northern Vietnam. It favors subtropical and tropical moist broadleaf forest, bamboo thickets, and dense secondary growth. Frequently found along forest edges, streamside tangles, shrubby clearings, and in tea estates adjacent to forest. The species keeps close to cover, moving through thickets and leaf-litter while foraging.
Altitude Range
200–2600 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A noisy member of the laughingthrush family, it travels in chattering parties through dense undergrowth and secondary forest. Its name refers to the warm rufous color of the vent and undertail coverts, which contrasts with otherwise earthy plumage. It often joins mixed-species flocks and is most conspicuous at dawn when groups engage in loud choruses.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically moves in small to medium-sized noisy groups, sometimes joining mixed-species foraging flocks. Pairs form during the breeding season and nest low in dense shrubs or bamboo, building a cup-shaped nest. Both parents participate in rearing the young, and family groups may remain together after fledging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Loud, varied series of chuckles, cackles, and whistles delivered in chorus by groups. Calls include harsh scolds and liquid notes, often exchanged antiphonally among flock members.
