Malabar Whistling Thrush

The Malabar whistling thrush, known scientifically as Myophonus horsfieldii, is a captivating bird with a human-like whistling call that has earned it the nickname "whistling schoolboy." This large thrush, measuring approximately 25-30 cm in length and weighing between 101-130 grams, is adorned with a blackish upper body. The males boast metallic blue patches on their forehead and shoulders, with a glossy royal-blue scaling extending from the back to the mid-breast and belly. Both the bill and legs are a stark black. Females are similar in appearance but have less pronounced scaling. Juvenile birds are black with a glossy blue shoulder patch and wing edgings, which are most visible in oblique lighting due to ultraviolet reflectance.

Identification Tips

To identify the Malabar whistling thrush, look for the shiny blue patches on the bird's body, which are particularly striking in the right light. The male's vibrant blue scaling is a key feature, while the female's scaling is subtler. Juveniles can be recognized by their black plumage with blue accents on the shoulders and wings.

Habitat

These birds are typically found in the dense, dark undergrowth of riverine forests, often foraging in the margins and beds of rocky hill streams and rivers. They are also seen in secondary growth and plantations, from the foothills up to 2200 meters above sea level.

Distribution

The Malabar whistling thrush is a resident species in the Western Ghats and associated hills of peninsular India, extending to central India and parts of the Eastern Ghats. They are not migratory but may disperse widely during the winter months.

Behaviour

Malabar whistling thrushes are often observed alone or in pairs and may be found near human habitation where suitable habitat exists. The male's melodious whistling song is a common sound in the summer, particularly around dawn. They are also known to bathe frequently, a behavior that can be observed throughout the day.

Song & Calls

The song of the Malabar whistling thrush is a varied and melodious whistle that can be heard emanating from the treetops. They also produce sharp, high-pitched single or two-note whistles at different times of the day.

Breeding

Breeding season for these birds spans from March to December, coinciding with the monsoon season. Courtship involves chasing flights and vocalizations. Nests are typically built in cavities along stream banks or occasionally in buildings, and are constructed from moss, bamboo roots, and grass. The clutch usually consists of 2 to 4 pale salmon pink eggs, speckled in appearance, which are incubated by both parents for about 16 to 17 days.

Diet and Feeding

The Malabar whistling thrush is omnivorous, feeding on a diet that includes insects, snails, worms, crabs, small frogs, drupes, and wind-fallen fruits such as figs and berries. There are even rare instances of them consuming small snakes.

Conservation status

The Malabar whistling thrush is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it is not at immediate risk of widespread decline.