The white-headed island-thrush, also known as the Loyalty island thrush, is a species of passerine in the family Turdidae. It is found in Vanuatu, and New Caledonia. It was formerly considered to be a subspecies of island thrush, but was classified as a distinct species by the IOC and Clements checklist in 2024.
Region
Southwest Pacific
Typical Environment
Occurs on forested islands of New Caledonia’s Loyalty Islands and parts of Vanuatu. Prefers closed-canopy humid forests, forest edges, and older secondary growth. Forages mainly in the understory and on the forest floor but will move into fruiting trees when available. Often persists in lightly disturbed habitats provided dense cover remains.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the Loyalty island thrush, this recently recognized species is part of the highly variable island thrush complex. It features a striking white head contrasting with a much darker body, making it easier to separate from other island thrushes in its range. It inhabits forested islands of New Caledonia (Loyalty Islands) and Vanuatu and is typically shy and skulking. Formal conservation assessments may lag behind its 2024 taxonomic split.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct flights between cover
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups. Territorial during breeding, with cup-shaped nests placed in dense vegetation or small trees. Outside the breeding season it may join loose foraging aggregations where resources are abundant.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Mellow, fluty whistles delivered from shaded perches at dawn and dusk, reminiscent of other Turdus thrushes. Includes soft contact calls and sharper chipping alarm notes when disturbed.
