Orange Ground Thrush

The orange ground thrush (Geokichla gurneyi) is a charming bird belonging to the Turdidae family. It is a medium-sized thrush, with a length ranging from 21 to 23 centimeters. The males typically weigh between 44.5 and 64.5 grams, while the females are slightly heavier, ranging from 48.5 to 76 grams. The plumage of this species is a delightful mix of colors, with olive-brown upperparts that may have a greyish tinge in some lights. The flight feathers are a darker blackish-brown, and the bird sports two distinctive bars on the wings. The underparts are a vibrant orange, leading to a white vent, and around the eye, one can observe an incomplete white eye-ring. The beak is a dark hue, and the legs are a soft pink. Females are similar to males but less brightly colored, while the immature birds have mottled underparts.

Identification Tips

When trying to identify the orange ground thrush, look for the striking orange throat, breast, and flanks, which contrast with the olive-brown upperparts. The incomplete white eye-ring and the two wing bars are also key features. The bird's size and the pink legs can help distinguish it from similar species.

Habitat

This species thrives in montane forests, specifically the afromontane regions of southeastern Africa. It is accustomed to life at elevations ranging from 500 to 2,500 meters above sea level.

Distribution

The orange ground thrush has a broad range estimated at over 5 million square kilometers. It can be found in various countries across southeastern Africa, including Kenya, Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.

Behaviour

The orange ground thrush is a crepuscular bird, most active during the twilight hours. It is generally sedentary, although it may undertake altitudinal movements in certain regions. The bird's call is a sharp "tsip" and a more drawn-out "cureek," while its song is composed of several mellow and melodious notes. It forages on the ground, searching for food items such as earthworms, insects, molluscs, and fruits.

Song & Calls

The vocalizations of the orange ground thrush are a delight to the ear. Its call includes a "tsip" and "cureek," while its song is a series of melodious notes that are both mellow and enchanting.

Breeding

Breeding seasons vary by region: January to May in Kenya, August to December in Tanzania, October to January in Malawi, and September to December in Mozambique, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. The female, during the breeding season, is consistently heavier than the male. The nest is a meticulously constructed deep cup made of moss, twigs, leaves, roots, and ferns. Clutches typically consist of 2 to 3 turquoise-blue eggs, which are incubated for about 15 days. The fledglings then spend 18 to 20 days in the nest before venturing out.

Diet and Feeding

The orange ground thrush has a varied diet that includes earthworms, insects, molluscs, and fruits. It forages on the forest floor, using its keen senses to locate prey.

Conservation status

The exact population size of the orange ground thrush is unknown, but it is currently experiencing a decline due to habitat loss. Despite this, the species is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, as it has a large range and the population decline is not rapid enough to classify it as vulnerable.