The greater necklaced laughingthrush

A greater necklaced laughingthrush is seen perched on a tree branch at Bijia Hill Park, Futian District. Photos by Isaac Cohen

The greater necklaced 

Among Shenzhen’s many avian inhabitants, the greater necklaced laughingthrush (Pterorhinus pectoralis) stands out as an enchanting and vital species.

黑领噪鹛是深圳最具代表性的本土鸟类之一。

This medium-sized songbird features a plumage in a delightful combination of warm shades, such as chestnut, olive and gray. Their necks are adorned with a distinctive pattern of black and white feathers, resembling an elegant necklace. With a lively disposition, these birds are known for their melodious calls that ring through the local forests.

这种鸣禽体型中等，身披以栗棕、橄榄、黄灰色为主的暖色羽毛，颈侧至胸前具显著的黑白色宽带。性活泼，爱喧闹。

These birds are often found in the lower mountain ranges, where dense vegetation and various plant species provide the ideal habitat for nesting and foraging. The bird thrives in the subtropical climate, with mild winters and abundant rainfall.

A greater necklaced laughingthrush is seen perched on a tree branch at Bijia Hill Park, Futian District. 

黑领噪鹛常见于低地山林，喜在植被茂密丰富处栖息筑巢。它们是亚热带地区的常见鸟种，喜潮湿气候，不耐严寒。

The greater necklaced laughingthrush is primarily a resident species, meaning they do not undertake long-distance migrations. They establish territories within their preferred habitat and remain year-round. However, some individuals may travel short distances in a seasonal manner in search of food sources or breeding grounds.

黑领噪鹛属留鸟，不会在特定季节沿经度线进行长距离迁徙，但少量个体会在随季节变化沿海拔进行垂直迁徙，夏季迁往高海拔地区进行繁殖，冬季则迁往低海拔地区寻找食物。

These omnivorous birds feed on insects, worms, spiders, and small invertebrates on the forest floor. They also relish the opportunity to feast on various fruits, berries, and seeds when available, contributing to the dispersal of plant seeds throughout their habitat.

A greater necklaced laughingthrush is seen perched on a tree branch at Bijia Hill Park, Futian District. 

黑领噪鹛属杂食性鸟类，在地面觅食，寻找昆虫、蠕虫、蜘蛛等小型无脊椎动物，若是开不了荤，也吃水果、浆果、种子等，因此它们也是主要的播种媒介之一。

Their breeding season typically occurs during the spring and summer months in Shenzhen. Males showcase their vibrant plumage and songs to attract potential mates. Once a pair forms a bond, they collaborate to construct a cup-shaped nest where the female lays a clutch of up to six eggs, and both parents share the responsibilities of incubation and raising the young chicks.

黑领噪鹛常在春、夏两季繁殖。繁殖期雄性的羽色更加鲜艳，鸣声更加宛转，以吸引雌性。配对成功后便寻址筑巢，巢呈杯状，雌鸟每窝产卵可达6枚，雏鸟则由亲鸟共同孵化、抚养。