Russet Nightingale-Thrush
NameRusset Nightingale-Thrush
Common NameRusset Nightingale-Thrush
Scientific NameCatharus occidentalis
FamilyTurdidae
Wingspan (cm)32
Length (cm)17.5
Weight (g)35
Plumage DetailsUpperparts, including the head, back, wings, and tail, are a rich, uniform russet-brown. The throat and flanks are grayish, transitioning to a whitish belly. It lacks distinct eye-rings or prominent spotting on the breast.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a distinctive, ethereal, flute-like whistle that spirals downwards. Calls include soft 'whit' or 'chup' notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the highlands of Mexico, found from Sonora and Chihuahua south through the Sierra Madre Occidental and Oriental to Oaxaca.
Identifying FeaturesUniform russet-brown upperparts, Grayish throat and flanks with whitish belly, Lack of prominent eye-ring or breast spots, Slender bill, Ethereal, spiraling song
Description
The Russet Nightingale-Thrush is a medium-sized thrush characterized by its warm russet-brown upperparts and grayish underparts. It typically forages on the forest floor, often flicking leaves to uncover insects, and is known for its beautiful, flute-like song.
