The Yemen thrush is a species of bird in the thrush family Turdidae. It is native to the Sarawat Mountains of the western Arabian Peninsula.
Region
Western Arabian Peninsula
Typical Environment
Occurs in the Sarawat/Asir mountain chain of western Yemen and adjacent southwestern Saudi Arabia. It inhabits montane juniper woodlands, mixed broadleaf scrub, and terraced farmland with scattered trees. The species uses wadis, orchards, and village edges when nearby woodland persists. It requires shaded ground and shrub layers for foraging and dense cover for nesting.
Altitude Range
1600–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Yemen thrush is a montane songbird restricted to the Sarawat Mountains of Yemen and southwestern Saudi Arabia. It favors old juniper and broadleaf woodlands, where it forages on the ground and in shrubs for insects and berries. Habitat degradation from juniper die-back, woodcutting, and overgrazing threatens local populations. Its rich, fluty song carries far at dawn from high perches.
Temperament
shy and somewhat secretive
Flight Pattern
direct flight with rapid wingbeats between trees
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, becoming more conspicuous during the breeding season. Pairs defend small territories and build open cup nests in trees or dense shrubs. Clutches are small, and both parents feed the young. Outside breeding, small loose groups may form around fruiting trees.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rich, mellow thrush-like song of fluty, varied phrases delivered from canopy perches at dawn and dusk. Calls include sharp tack or chup notes when alarmed. The song carries well across terraced slopes and wadis.
