Russet-tailed Thrush
NameRusset-tailed Thrush
Common NameRusset-tailed Thrush
Scientific NameZoothera heinei
FamilyTurdidae
Wingspan (cm)32
Length (cm)25
Weight (g)75
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are mottled brown with darker scaling, giving a scaly appearance, and a finely spotted crown. Underparts are white with heavy, bold blackish-brown spotting and scaling, especially on the breast and flanks. The tail is distinctly rufous, and it has a pale eye-ring and a dark bill.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a series of clear, fluty, whistling notes, often with a melancholic quality. It also produces various churring or chattering alarm calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in eastern Australia (from central Queensland south to New South Wales), New Guinea, and some islands in the Bismarck Archipelago and Indonesia.
Identifying FeaturesRusset-colored tail, Heavily spotted white underparts, Mottled brown upperparts, Pale eye-ring, Ground-dwelling forest bird
Description
A medium-sized thrush typically found on the forest floor, known for its cryptic brown and white mottled plumage. It is characterized by its shy nature and distinctive russet-colored tail, which helps it blend into its leaf-litter habitat.
