Zoothera lunulata
The Bassian Thrush (*Zoothera lunulata*) is a medium-sized, secretive passerine native to southeastern Australia, renowned for its cryptic 'scaly' plumage. Adults measure about 27-29 cm in length with a weight typically ranging from 90-120 grams. Its upperparts are rich brown, distinctively marked with black crescentic scales on the head, back, and wings, providing superb camouflage in leaf litter. The underparts are paler, ranging from whitish to buff, and are also heavily patterned with sim...
Dense, moist eucalyptus forests, rainforests, and wet sclerophyll forests, often near creeks or damp gulleys, from sea level to moderate elevations.
Primarily invertebrates such as earthworms, snails, spiders, and various insects; occasionally supplements its diet with fallen fruits and berries.
The Bassian Thrush is primarily diurnal but often most active during the cooler hours of early morning and late afternoon, foraging discreetly on the forest floor. It employs a distinctive 'splattering' foraging technique, vigorously flicking leaf litter and debris aside with its bill and feet to...
The Bassian Thrush is endemic to the temperate and subtropical regions of southeastern Australia, including the island state of Tasmania. Its breeding range extends from a scattered presence in southeastern Queensland, southwards through the eastern half of New South Wales, and across much of Vic...
Least Concern
- Its superb camouflage makes it incredibly difficult to spot in its preferred leaf-litter habitat, often only betrayed by its distinctive foraging sounds. - The Bassian Thrush is renowned for its unique 'splattering' foraging technique, vigorously flicking leaf litter aside with its bill and fee...