Nilgiri Thrush

The Nilgiri thrush, a member of the esteemed thrush family, presents a striking figure in the forest undergrowth. Both sexes are similar in appearance, measuring a length of 27 to 31 centimetres. Their plumage is adorned with black scaling set against a paler backdrop that may range from white to a subtle yellowish hue.

Identification Tips

In flight, one can discern the Nilgiri thrush by its distinctive black band on the white underwings, a characteristic it shares with the Siberian thrush. When perched, the scaled pattern of its feathers provides excellent camouflage within the forest's terrestrial understory.

Habitat

This bird is endemic to the Western Ghats, favouring the unique sholas—these isolated cloud forests at high altitudes are interspersed with rolling montane grasslands. On occasion, particularly during rainy days, it may also be encountered along roadways.

Distribution

The Nilgiri thrush has a habitat range that is confined to the moist shola forests within the Western Ghats region.

Behaviour

The Nilgiri thrush is an opportunistic insectivore, foraging primarily on insects. It is most often observed within the lower canopy of the moist shola ecosystem, where it skilfully uses its scaled plumage for camouflage.

Song & calls

The male Nilgiri thrush is known for its loud and mechanical whistle, which carries far through the forest air. The song consists of a series of one-second-long phrases, each separated by a pause of 5-10 seconds, producing a melodious "twee…tuuu….tuuu….tuuu."

Diet and Feeding

As an opportunistic insectivore, the Nilgiri thrush's diet consists mainly of insects, which it seeks out in the lower canopy of its shola forest home.

Similar Species

Previously considered a subspecies of the scaly thrush, the Nilgiri thrush shares some visual similarities with this bird, as well as with the Siberian thrush, particularly the black band on the underwings observed during flight.