Japanese Thrush
NameJapanese Thrush
Common NameJapanese Thrush
Scientific NameTurdus cardis
FamilyTurdidae
Wingspan (cm)36.5
Length (cm)22
Weight (g)70
Plumage DetailsAdult males have a dark slate-blue head, upperparts, and breast, contrasting with a white belly that has distinct dark spots on the flanks. The bill and a narrow eye-ring are bright yellow. Females are duller, with brownish upperparts and a paler, more extensively spotted underside.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a rich, fluty song, often delivered from a prominent perch, and various sharp alarm calls.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds primarily in Japan, migrating south for the winter to southern Japan, southern China, and parts of Southeast Asia, including Taiwan and the Philippines.
Identifying Featuresdark slate-blue plumage (male), bright yellow bill, white belly with dark spots on flanks (male), brownish plumage with spotted underside (female)
Description
The Japanese Thrush is a medium-sized passerine bird, with males displaying striking dark slate-blue plumage and a bright yellow bill. It is often seen foraging on the forest floor for invertebrates and fruits. This species is migratory, breeding in Japan and wintering further south.
