Wayanad Laughingthrush
NameWayanad Laughingthrush
Common NameWayanad Laughingthrush
Scientific NamePterorhinus delesserti
FamilyLeiothrichidae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)23
Weight (g)60
Plumage DetailsFeatures a glossy black crown and nape, contrasting with a prominent white throat and upper breast. The upperparts are dark greyish-brown, while the lower breast, belly, flanks, and undertail coverts are a rich rufous-chestnut. It has a dark bill and legs, and reddish-brown eyes.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its loud, ringing calls, often described as a series of clear, whistling notes that can sometimes have a 'laughing' quality. Calls are typically given from dense cover.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Western Ghats mountain range in southern India, primarily found in the states of Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
Identifying FeaturesBlack cap, White throat, Rufous-chestnut underparts, Dark greyish-brown back, Shy, skulking behavior, Distinctive ringing calls
Description
The Wayanad Laughingthrush is a medium-sized babbler characterized by its striking black cap and white throat. It is a shy, skulking bird typically found foraging in the dense undergrowth of evergreen and moist deciduous forests.
