The white-chinned thrush, known in Jamaica as the hopping dick is a species of bird in the family Turdidae. It is endemic to Jamaica where it is common and widespread. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, subtropical or tropical moist montane forests, and heavily degraded former forest.
Region
Caribbean (Jamaica)
Typical Environment
The white-chinned thrush is common and widespread across Jamaica, occurring from coastal lowlands to montane forests. It inhabits moist broadleaf forest, forest edges, second-growth, and shade coffee plantations, and also uses heavily degraded former forest. It often ventures into gardens adjacent to wooded areas. It is a versatile forager on the ground and in low vegetation, thriving in both primary and secondary habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Locally called the 'hopping dick' in Jamaica, this thrush is easily recognized by its white chin patch and bright orange bill and legs. It forages by hopping on the forest floor and flipping leaf litter, helping control insects and dispersing seeds. It adapts well to disturbed habitats and can be seen in gardens and plantations near forests.
Temperament
shy and wary but adaptable near human habitation
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct flights between perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, sometimes in small family groups. Builds a cup-shaped nest of grasses and rootlets in trees or dense shrubs. Both sexes involved in nesting duties, and it defends a small territory during breeding.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rich, melodious thrush-like song of clear whistles and varied phrases delivered from a mid-level perch. Calls include sharp 'tchik' or 'chak' notes and soft contact calls while foraging.
Plumage
Mostly dark olive-brown to slate-brown above with slightly paler underparts and a distinct clean white chin and upper throat; smooth, sleek feathering typical of Turdus thrushes.
Diet
Feeds on insects, spiders, and other invertebrates gleaned from leaf litter and low vegetation. Also consumes fruits and berries from native and cultivated plants, and occasionally small snails or earthworms. Seasonal fruit abundance can make up a substantial portion of the diet.
Preferred Environment
Forages primarily on the forest floor and along edges, often hopping and turning leaves to uncover prey. Readily uses secondary growth, plantations, and gardens adjacent to forest.
