The São Tomé thrush or olivaceous thrush is a species of bird in the family Turdidae. It is endemic to São Tomé. Until 2010, the related Príncipe thrush was considered a subspecies, Turdus olivaceofuscus xanthorhynchus.
Region
Gulf of Guinea islands (Central Atlantic off West Africa)
Typical Environment
Occurs only on São Tomé, where it inhabits primary and mature secondary forest, forest edges, and shaded agroforestry such as old cocoa plantations with good canopy. It is most frequent in mid-elevation moist forest but can range from lowlands into montane areas. Birds often forage on the forest floor and in the understory, moving into fruiting trees when available. Protected tracts like Obô Natural Park provide key refuge, but fragmentation outside reserves affects local occurrence.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the olivaceous thrush, this species is confined to the island of São Tomé in the Gulf of Guinea. It favors forested habitats and can sometimes be seen foraging along trails and edges. The closely related Príncipe thrush was split as a distinct species in 2010. Habitat loss remains the main threat to its long-term survival.
Temperament
shy and retiring
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through understory; low, direct flights
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Builds a cup-shaped nest in shrubs or low trees, with both parents involved in care. Likely monogamous, defending small territories in suitable forest patches.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Rich, mellow whistles and fluty phrases delivered from concealed perches. Calls include soft chucks and thin seep notes, with more elaborate song at dawn and dusk.
