Myophonus castaneus
The Brown-winged Whistling Thrush, *Myophonus castaneus*, is a captivating member of the Old World flycatcher and chat family (Muscicapidae), endemic to the montane forests of Sumatra, Indonesia. Adults boast a striking plumage of deep blue-black across most of the body, contrasted sharply by prominent chestnut-brown primary and secondary wing coverts and tertials, giving the species its common name. Iridescent blue shoulder patches and a bright yellow bill complete its distinctive appearance...
Found primarily in montane and submontane evergreen broadleaf forests, often in close proximity to clear, fast-flowing mountain streams and rivers, at elevations typically between 700 and 2,000 meters.
Feeds primarily on a variety of invertebrates, including insects like beetles, grasshoppers, caterpillars, as well as snails and earthworms, supplemented with small fruits and berries, foraging mainly by gleaning from the ground and leaf litter.
This diurnal species is generally solitary or found in pairs, maintaining a low profile in dense undergrowth but frequently perching on prominent rocks or branches, especially when singing. Foraging occurs mainly on the ground, where it hops and walks along stream banks, flicking leaf litter asid...
The Brown-winged Whistling Thrush is strictly endemic to the island of Sumatra, Indonesia, where it is a resident species, with no migratory movements. Its distribution is confined to the montane and submontane regions of the Barisan Mountains, which stretch across the length of the island. Withi...
Least Concern
- The Brown-winged Whistling Thrush is entirely endemic to the island of Sumatra, Indonesia, found nowhere else in the world. - Its scientific genus, *Myophonus*, literally translates to 'sound bird' or 'singing bird,' a testament to its beautiful vocalizations. - The striking chestnut-brown on i...