White-crested Laughingthrush

The White-crested Laughingthrush, Garrulax leucolophus, is a robust bird with a distinctive white hood and crest, a feature from which it derives its name. It possesses a stocky build, strong blackish legs and bill, and a rounded tail. The bird's plumage is voluminous, with a body length averaging 30 cm and a tail spanning between 13 to 15 cm. Its broad, elongated black eye-mask is a striking contrast to the white head, throat, and upper chest, while the mantle, back, and underparts are rufescent, fading into darker olive-brown on the tail and upper wings.

Identification Tips

Males and females are similar in appearance, though females have a smaller crest and a slightly duller mantle. Juveniles can be distinguished by their shorter crest and tail, paler mask, and brighter mantle. Subspecies exhibit minor variations in plumage, with some having darker mantles or paler underparts.

Habitat

The White-crested Laughingthrush is found in dense, moist, and shady thickets, as well as the edge and understory of broadleaved secondary forests up to elevations of 1600m. It prefers habitats with bamboo, which provides nesting substrate and camouflage.

Distribution

Native to the Himalayan foothills and Southeast Asia, this species has a broad range across countries like India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, China, Vietnam, and Thailand. Introduced populations exist in Malaysia and Singapore, likely due to escapes or releases from the caged bird trade.

Behaviour

This highly social and vocal bird is usually seen in flocks of 6-12, which can be quite noisy. They communicate with a variety of calls and are known for their "loud cackling outbursts." They are also cooperative breeders, with multiple adults participating in nesting and chick-rearing.

Song & Calls

The White-crested Laughingthrush produces four types of vocalizations, ranging from short sounds to complex subsongs. Their calls serve social purposes, such as maintaining flock cohesion and alerting to danger.

Breeding

Breeding occurs from February to September, with nests built in shrubs and trees. Both parents incubate the 2–6 pure white eggs and share brooding and feeding duties. Cooperative breeding is common, with helpers assisting in nest building and chick feeding.

Similar Species

Similar species may be differentiated by variations in plumage, size, and vocalizations.

Diet and Feeding

An omnivorous bird, the White-crested Laughingthrush feeds on invertebrates, fruits, seeds, nectar, and occasionally small reptiles and amphibians. It forages on the ground, often in groups, uncovering prey by tossing leaf litter aside.

Conservation status

The White-crested Laughingthrush is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a wide range and minimal risk of extinction. However, introduced populations may impact native species in some areas.