Rufous-necked Laughingthrush

The Rufous-necked Laughingthrush, a member of the babbler family rather than true thrushes, is a bird of modest size, measuring between 22 to 27 centimeters in length and weighing between 51 to 73 grams. Its plumage is predominantly grey, adorned with a distinctive rufous or rustic coloration around the neck, complemented by a contrasting black face.

Identification Tips

This species is characterized by its slow molting process, which results in a consistent appearance throughout its life stages, making young and older birds look quite similar. The Rufous-necked Laughingthrush can be distinguished from its close relative, the Rufous-cheeked Laughingthrush, by its geographic range and subtle plumage differences.

Habitat

The Rufous-necked Laughingthrush inhabits subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, as well as moist montane forests, where it resides year-round without migrating.

Distribution

The bird is native to a range that extends from Nepal through to China and down into Myanmar. Some populations are isolated in regions of Nepal, a likely consequence of the historical formation of mountain ranges.

Behaviour

This species is known for its intelligence, which serves as a defense against brood parasitism by cuckoos. The birds exhibit excellent egg recognition abilities, allowing them to remove non-matching eggs from their nests.

Song & Calls

The Rufous-necked Laughingthrush vocalizes with a series of chirps and rambling, unordered notes that may resemble the babbling or laughing sounds after which the family is named. Their distinctive "whip" calls are particularly noticeable when the birds gather in feeding flocks.

Breeding

While specific studies on their reproduction are lacking, it is believed that Rufous-necked Laughingthrushes breed in a manner similar to other species in their family. They construct compact cup nests from leaves and grasses, with breeding occurring from March to August.

Similar Species

The Rufous-necked Laughingthrush is similar in appearance to the Rufous-cheeked Laughingthrush, but the two can be differentiated by their distinct geographical ranges.

Diet and Feeding

As generalist feeders, these birds consume a varied diet that includes insects, seeds, molluscs, and berries. Their generalist bill shape allows them to exploit a wide range of food sources.

Conservation status

The Rufous-necked Laughingthrush is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List, indicating that it is not currently at significant risk of decline.