The blue whistling thrush

A blue whistling thrush is seen perched on a branch in Tanglang Mountain in Nanshan District. Photos by Isaac Cohen

The blue whistling thrush

The blue whistling thrush (Myophonus caeruleus) is a stunning bird species that can be found across various regions of Asia, including in Shenzhen. This charismatic bird captivates observers with its vibrant plumage and melodious calls.

紫啸鸫是亚洲的常见鸟种，也是深圳的本土留鸟。它们羽色华丽，鸣声婉转，在观鸟爱好者中人气很高。

A medium-sized bird, it measures around 30 centimeters. A striking deep blue plumage covers its body from head to tail. The wings and tail feathers are slightly darker, and appear glossy. Its eyes, in a striking golden-yellow, contrast beautifully with its blue feathers. Its slender beak is well-suited for its omnivorous diet; its strong legs are good for perching and hopping.

紫啸鸫体型中等，体长约30厘米，全身具辉蓝色羽毛，翅上和尾上覆羽颜色较深，具金属光泽，虹膜金黄色，与羽色形成鲜明的对比。喙长而有力，体现它属杂食性鸟类，跗跖长而有力，擅攀援跳跃。

A blue whistling thrush is seen perched on a branch in Tanglang Mountain in Nanshan District.

Known for its melodious and resonant whistling calls, the bird is often heard before seen. Its vocals, ranging from clear and musical notes to complex and rhythmic songs, not only serve as a form of communication between individuals, but add a delightful ambiance to its habitat as well. These birds are typically found near water bodies, they perch on rocks or branches to sing enchanting tunes.

紫啸鸫的鸣声高亢似哨，常常未见其鸟而先闻其声，且叫声多变而富有音韵，常赖以此与同类交流，同时给它们栖息的生境带来了些许活泼的气氛。本物多见于清澈的山间溪流旁，常站立于小溪中的岩石上高声鸣叫。

A territorial species, it tends to defend its chosen area from other individuals. It is highly agile and adept at navigating through its habitat, hopping and flying between trees and rocks, where it finds its preferred meal: insects, such as beetles, ants, and grasshoppers. These birds also supplement their diet with fruits, berries, and even small reptiles or amphibians that come their way.

紫啸鸫是领地意识较强的独居鸟类。它们行动敏捷，擅长飞行，在山林疾速翩飞着，捕捉甲虫、蚂蚁、蝗虫等昆虫果腹。又是也吃水果、浆果等植物果实，甚至还会捕杀小型的爬行及两栖动物。

They typically breed from March to June. During this time, males establish territories and engage in elaborate courtship displays to attract mates. Once a pair forms, they build a cup-shaped nest using moss, grass, twigs, and other plant materials, often near water sources. The female lays a clutch of up to four eggs, which she incubates for approximately two weeks.

紫啸鸫繁殖于每年3月至6月，期间雄性领地意识膨胀，并对雌性展现出显著的求偶行为。雌雄婚配后，共同在水边择址筑巢，巢小巧似杯，巢材包括苔藓、草叶、藤蔓等植物材料。雌鸟每窝产卵可达4枚，孵化2周后，雏鸟方破壳。

This bird plays a crucial role as a predator and seed disperser in the ecosystem. They help control potential pest populations and facilitate seed dispersal, promoting plant growth and diversity within their habitat.

紫啸鸫是本地生态系统里重要的捕食者，有效地控制了昆虫尤其是害虫的种群数量，同时也重要的播种者，有助于生境中植物种群的壮大，并丰富物种多样性。