The rusty laughingthrush is a species of bird in the family Leiothrichidae. It is endemic to Taiwan. It formerly included the buffy laughingthrush of mainland China as a subspecies. Compared to the rusty laughingthrush, the buffy laughingthrush has paler grey underparts, more contrasting rufous wings, broader white tips to the tail, and distinct black lores.
Region
East Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs across foothill to montane regions of Taiwan, favoring evergreen broadleaf forest, forest edge, and dense thickets. It readily uses secondary growth, bamboo groves, and overgrown plantations. Birds often keep close to the ground or mid-understory, moving through tangled vegetation. It tolerates some human disturbance and may appear near tea farms and rural forest margins.
Altitude Range
200–2300 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Endemic to Taiwan, the rusty laughingthrush was formerly lumped with the buffy laughingthrush of mainland China but is now treated as a separate species. It moves in noisy parties through dense undergrowth and is often detected by its chuckling, laughing calls before being seen. Like many laughingthrushes, it helps control insects and also disperses seeds by consuming fruits.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually travels in pairs or small, chatty parties and may join mixed-species flocks. Builds a cup-shaped nest low in shrubs or dense vegetation; both sexes likely participate in nesting duties. Generally skulking and prefers to remain concealed while foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A loud, chuckling series of notes with laughing phrases, often delivered antiphonally by a pair. Also gives harsh scolds and chattering contact calls while moving through cover.
