Ashy-headed Laughingthrush

The Ashy-headed Laughingthrush, known scientifically as Argya cinereifrons, is a bird of considerable charm, with a length of 23 centimeters and a long, expressive tail. Its upper parts are cloaked in rufous brown, while the underparts are a deep, warm buff. The head is a distinguished grey, setting off a white throat, a feature that readily catches the eye.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify this species, look for its grey head and white throat, which contrast with the rufous brown and deep buff of the body. The bird's long tail is often in motion, adding to its distinctive profile.

Habitat

The Ashy-headed Laughingthrush is a denizen of the rainforest, favoring the lush, verdant depths of the jungle and the impenetrable tangle of bamboo thickets found in Sri Lanka's wet zone.

Distribution

This species is endemic to Sri Lanka, meaning it is found nowhere else in the world. It is a bird that clings to the rainforests of this island nation and is a common sight in prime locations such as Kitulgala and Sinharaja.

Behaviour

The Ashy-headed Laughingthrush is a sociable creature, often seen in groups of up to a dozen. It is also a frequent participant in the mixed feeding flocks that are a hallmark of the tropical Asian jungle. Its flight is weak, owing to short, rounded wings, and it is not known to migrate.

Song & Calls

The bird's name is derived from its calls, which are reminiscent of laughter. These vocalizations are often the most reliable sign of the bird's presence, as it can be rather elusive visually.

Breeding

Breeding within the dense foliage of the rainforest, the Ashy-headed Laughingthrush constructs its nest in a bush, well-concealed from potential predators. A typical clutch consists of three to four eggs.

Diet and Feeding

Insects form the mainstay of its diet, but it also partakes of jungle berries, indulging in the bounty of its rainforest home.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List has classified the Ashy-headed Laughingthrush as Vulnerable. Its habitat is under threat, yet it remains relatively common in the protected forests of Sri Lanka's wet zone.