The Usambara thrush, also known as Roehl's thrush or Usambara olive thrush, is a species of thrush found in eastern Africa. Formerly, it was considered as a subspecies of the olive thrush, with which it is known to hybridize with, but is now recognised as a separate species.
Region
Eastern Arc Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs in the East and West Usambara Mountains of northeastern Tanzania, mainly in evergreen and submontane montane forests. It favors mature, closed-canopy forest with dense understory, but may also use forest edges, clearings, and older secondary growth if cover is sufficient. Birds typically forage on or near the forest floor, moving along shaded ravines and mossy slopes. Habitat loss and fragmentation limit its occurrence outside protected forest blocks.
Altitude Range
800–2400 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Usambara thrush, also called Roehl's thrush or Usambara olive thrush, is restricted to Tanzania’s Usambara Mountains in the Eastern Arc range. Long treated as a subspecies of the olive thrush, it is now recognized as a distinct species and is known to hybridize with olive thrush where ranges meet. It is a shy forest bird that forages on the ground and helps disperse seeds of native montane trees.
Temperament
shy and retiring
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, sometimes in small family groups after breeding. Builds a neat cup nest in a shrub or small tree, often in well-shaded sites. Breeding is tied to rainy periods, and both parents tend the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Rich, mellow thrush-like phrases delivered from a concealed perch, with fluty notes and occasional whistles. Calls include soft chucks and thin seets given when alarmed within dense foliage.
