Naumann's Thrush

The Naumann's thrush (Turdus naumanni) is a medium-sized, stocky member of the thrush family, Turdidae. It exhibits a pale brown back and head, with a face, breast, flank spots, and rump that are tinged reddish. The belly and undertail are white, creating a striking contrast. The underwing is a notable reddish brown, and a pale supercilium graces its expression.

Identification Tips

When identifying Naumann's thrush, look for the reddish hues on the face, breast, and flanks, as well as the white belly and undertail. The bird's structure is reminiscent of a small fieldfare. Males and females are fairly similar in appearance, though immatures display a weaker patterning.

Habitat

Naumann's thrush favors open woodland areas for breeding, differing from its close relative, the dusky thrush, which prefers more mountainous and tundra-edge habitats.

Distribution

Breeding from central Siberia to North Manchuria, Amurland, and Sakhalin, Naumann's thrush is a strongly migratory species. In winter, it travels to South Asia and Southeast Asia, with China, Korea, and neighboring countries being principal destinations. It is also known as a rare vagrant to Western Europe.

Behaviour

This species is known to nest in trees, where it lays 3-5 eggs in an untidy but neatly lined nest. During migration and in their wintering grounds, Naumann's thrushes may form small flocks.

Song & Calls

The song of Naumann's thrush may be distinct from the simple fluted or whistling redwing-like song of the dusky thrush, offering a delightful auditory clue for the keen birdwatcher.

Breeding

Naumann's thrush breeds in open woodlands, constructing nests in trees where it lays a clutch of 3-5 eggs.

Similar Species

The dusky thrush (T. eunomus) is closely related and sometimes confused with Naumann's thrush. However, the dusky thrush has a darker brown back and rump, and the face, breast, and flank spots are black, not reddish.

Diet and Feeding

An omnivorous bird, Naumann's thrush has a varied diet that includes a wide range of insects, particularly mosquitoes, earthworms, and an assortment of berries.

Conservation status

The Naumann's thrush is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that, at present, there are no immediate threats to its population numbers.