The white-browed laughingthrush is a bird in the family Leiothrichidae. The species was first described by Robert Swinhoe in 1867. It is found in China, Hong Kong, India, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Region
Southern China and northern Indochina
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern and central China (including Hong Kong and Guangxi) south through Myanmar, northern Thailand and Laos to Vietnam, with local populations in adjacent regions. It favors scrubby hillsides, forest edge, secondary growth, bamboo thickets, and shrub-laced ravines. Readily uses disturbed habitats and semi-urban green spaces where dense cover persists. Often accompanies mixed-species flocks along understory and mid-story tangles.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The white-browed laughingthrush is a gregarious babbler known for its bold white eyebrow and chattering, scolding calls. It frequents dense undergrowth, often moving in small, noisy parties that keep low and hidden. In parts of South China, including Hong Kong, it adapts well to parks and edge habitats. Formerly placed in Garrulax, it is now in Pterorhinus within the family Leiothrichidae.
Temperament
social and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct dashes between cover
Social Behavior
Typically travels in pairs or small family groups, maintaining contact with constant chatter. Nests low in dense shrubs or bamboo, where both parents tend young. Outside breeding, groups may join mixed flocks and move methodically through thickets.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A varied series of chattering scolds, whistles, and mewing notes delivered in bursts. Pairs often duet, and groups create a lively chorus when moving through cover.
