Scaly Thrush

The Scaly Thrush, Zoothera dauma, is a member of the thrush family Turdidae, exhibiting a distinctive plumage pattern reminiscent of scales. Both sexes are similar in appearance, measuring 27–31 cm in length, and are characterized by black scaling on a paler white or yellowish background.

Identification Tips

In flight, the Scaly Thrush can be identified by a conspicuous black band on the white underwings, a trait it shares with the Siberian Thrush. When perched, the scalloped plumage is the most striking feature for identification.

Habitat

This species breeds in the wet coniferous taiga, finding solace in the dense cover of the Himalayas and extending through to Malaysia.

Distribution

The Scaly Thrush has a broad range, with several races distributed across various regions. The Himalayan Z. d. dauma migrates to the foothills in winter, while Z. d. horsfieldi is a resident of the Indonesian islands. The migratory Z. aurea, or White's Thrush, travels from Siberia and north-east Asia, and other distinct races inhabit the hills of southwest India, Sri Lanka, and the Amami Islands in Japan.

Behaviour

A secretive bird, the Scaly Thrush prefers the sanctuary of dense vegetation. It constructs its nest in trees, laying three or four dull green eggs in a neatly fashioned cup nest. The species is omnivorous, with a diet consisting of a wide range of insects, earthworms, and berries.

Song & Calls

The male Scaly Thrush's song is a loud, far-carrying mechanical whistle, each one-second-long phrase twee…tuuu….tuuu….tuuu separated by pauses of 5-10 seconds, resonating through its habitat.

Similar Species

The Scaly Thrush has several similar subspecies and was previously grouped with species like the fawn-breasted thrush, Bassian thrush, and russet-tailed thrush. The taxonomy is still in flux, with some populations' identities, such as those on Taiwan, remaining uncertain.

Diet and Feeding

The Scaly Thrush is an omnivore, feeding on a diverse menu that includes insects, earthworms, and various berries.

Conservation status

The Scaly Thrush is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that, at present, it does not face immediate threats to its survival on a global scale.