The russet nightingale-thrush is a species of bird in the family Turdidae. It is endemic to Mexico.
Region
Mexican highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane forests of central and southern Mexico, including cloud forests and mature pine–oak and oak–evergreen mosaics. Favors dense, shaded understory along ravines, streams, and forest edges with abundant leaf litter. It can persist in selectively logged tracts and secondary growth if understory remains intact. Most frequently encountered in protected or relatively undisturbed highland forests.
Altitude Range
1200–3200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This shy thrush of Mexican montane forests is often detected by its clear, flute-like song before it is seen. It keeps to shaded understory and mossy ravines, where its russet plumage provides excellent camouflage. Like many Catharus thrushes, it switches seasonally between insects and fruits, helping disperse seeds of native plants.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats low through the understory
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs during the breeding season, holding small territories in dense understory. Builds a cup nest low in shrubs, ferns, or banks near streams; the female leads construction and incubation. Both parents typically feed the nestlings and fledglings.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A clear, mellow, flute-like series of rising and falling phrases with an ethereal quality typical of Catharus thrushes. Calls include soft tseeps and thin whistles given from concealed perches.
