The white-necked thrush is a songbird found in forest and woodland in South America. The taxonomy is potentially confusing, and it sometimes includes the members of the T. assimilis group as subspecies, in which case the "combined species" is referred to as the white-throated thrush. On the contrary, it may be split into two species, the rufous-flanked thrush and the grey-flanked thrush.
Region
Amazon Basin and Atlantic Forest
Typical Environment
Occurs widely in humid lowland and foothill forests of northern and eastern South America, inhabiting primary forest, well-developed secondary growth, and shaded forest edges. It favors dense understory and thickets, especially along streams and in ravines. The species also ventures into forested parks and gardens where continuous canopy and leaf litter are present. Local elevational movements may occur, but most populations are sedentary. It avoids open habitats and heavily fragmented areas.
Altitude Range
0–2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A shy forest thrush, it keeps close to dense understory and often forages on the ground by flipping leaf litter. Its clear, fluting dawn song carries far through humid forests. Taxonomy has been debated: some authorities have lumped it with the white-throated thrush, while others split it into rufous-flanked and grey-flanked forms.
White-necked thrush at its nest
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through understory, with direct low flights between cover
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs while foraging. Builds a neat cup nest of twigs, fibers, and moss placed low to mid-level in shrubs or small trees. Both parents participate in caring for the young. May join mixed-species flocks loosely around fruiting trees.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A mellow, flute-like series of clear phrases, delivered mostly at dawn and dusk. Calls include soft tchuck notes and thin whistles used as contact and alarm sounds.
