The white-necked laughingthrush is a species of bird in the family Leiothrichidae. It is found in Yunnan, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Region
Mainland Southeast Asia and southwest China
Typical Environment
Occurs from southwest China (notably Yunnan) southward into Myanmar, northern Thailand, and Laos. It inhabits subtropical and tropical moist broadleaf forests with dense undergrowth, bamboo thickets, and secondary scrub. Frequently found along forest edges, ravines, and damp gullies, and sometimes near clearings and trails. Though primarily a montane and foothill species, it can descend into lower elevations where suitable cover remains.
Altitude Range
200–2400 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
White-necked laughingthrushes are gregarious forest birds that move in noisy parties, often delivering rollicking, laugh-like choruses. They are adept at skulking through dense undergrowth and often go unseen despite being vocally conspicuous. The species tolerates secondary growth and edges, though it still depends on structurally rich forest. Their leaf-litter foraging helps control forest invertebrates.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; reluctant long-distance flier
Social Behavior
Typically travels in cohesive family groups or small flocks, often 6–12 birds, maintaining contact with constant chatter. Pairs may nest within loose groups and sometimes show cooperative care. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in dense shrubs or bamboo, with clutches usually of 2–4 eggs. Communal roosting is common outside the breeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud, laughing cackles and bubbling chatters delivered antiphonally, often building to a chorus. Calls also include scolding rattles and harsh notes used to keep the group together. Dawn choruses are especially conspicuous.
