Common Rock-Thrush
NameCommon Rock-Thrush
Common NameCommon Rock-Thrush
Scientific NameMonticola saxatilis
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)35
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)52.5
Plumage DetailsAdult male: Head, neck, and upper breast are bright blue. The back and scapulars are dark brown with prominent white spotting, giving a scaled appearance. Wings are dark brown. Rump, tail, and underparts from the lower breast to undertail coverts are rufous-orange. Adult female: Duller, mostly brownish-grey with heavy dark scaling and barring, especially on the upperparts and breast, with a rufous wash on the belly.
Vocalization / CallThe song is a clear, fluty, and melodious whistle, often incorporating imitations of other birds. Alarm calls are typically a harsh 'chak' sound.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, forest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across southern Europe, northwest Africa, and central Asia, migrating to sub-Saharan Africa for the winter.
Identifying FeaturesMale's bright blue head and upper breast, Male's dark, white-spotted back, Male's rufous-orange belly and rump, Preference for rocky and mountainous habitats, Melodious, fluty song
Description
The Common Rock-Thrush is a medium-sized thrush-like bird, with males displaying striking blue heads, spotted backs, and rufous-orange underparts. They are typically found in rocky, mountainous, and open scrub habitats, where they forage for insects and berries.
