Tickell's Thrush

Tickell's thrush (Turdus unicolor) is a member of the passerine bird family Turdidae. It is a bird of open forest regions in the Himalayas, known for its seasonal migrations into peninsular India, Nepal, and occasionally Bangladesh. The species is named in honor of the British ornithologist Samuel Tickell, who was known for his work in India and Burma.

Identification Tips

The male Tickell's thrush boasts a uniform blue-grey plumage on its upperparts, contrasting with a whitish belly and vent. The adult's beak and legs are a striking yellow, though juveniles may display a darker hue. A yellow eye-ring is present, which is thinner and less pronounced than that of the Indian blackbird, a larger relative. Females and younger birds are distinguished by their browner upperparts.

Nesting

From April to June, the Tickell's thrush engages in nest building, utilizing a variety of materials, with dried grass being the primary component.

Distribution and Habitat

Tickell's thrush is a versatile omnivore, consuming a broad spectrum of insects, earthworms, and berries. It prefers to nest in bushes and is known to migrate southward in India and Nepal during the winter months.

Behaviour

Rather than forming flocks, Tickell's thrush is often observed in loose groups ranging from pairs to small gatherings of up to five individuals.

Conservation Status

The Tickell's thrush is currently classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it is not at immediate risk of population decline or extinction.