Blue Whistling-Thrush
NameBlue Whistling-Thrush
Common NameBlue Whistling-Thrush
Scientific NameMyophonus caeruleus
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)41.5
Length (cm)33
Weight (g)165
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is a deep purplish-blue to dark blue, with iridescent bright blue spangling covering the head, neck, and upperparts, giving it a speckled appearance. The flight feathers and tail are a darker, duller blue. The bill is bright yellow, and the legs are dark.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its loud, clear, and melodious whistling calls, which often sound human-like and varied. These calls can sometimes be interspersed with harsh grating notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across Central and Southeast Asia, ranging from Afghanistan eastward through the Himalayas to China and Southeast Asian countries including India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, and parts of Indonesia.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Deep blue, spangled plumage, Bright yellow bill, Preference for rocky, stream-side habitats, Melodious whistling calls
Description
This large, striking thrush is characterized by its deep purplish-blue plumage heavily spangled with iridescent bright blue spots, especially on its head and upperparts. It possesses a prominent bright yellow bill and is typically found near rocky streams and rivers in forested mountain regions, where it forages for invertebrates and small vertebrates.
