Turdus simillimus
The Indian Blackbird, scientifically known as Turdus simillimus, is a striking member of the thrush family (Turdidae), often considered a distinct species recently split from the widespread Common Blackbird (Turdus merula). Adult males are uniformly glossy black with a brilliant yellow-orange bill and a prominent yellow eye-ring, creating a stark contrast that is a definitive field mark. Measuring approximately 23-29 cm in length with a wingspan of 34-38 cm and weighing 80-120 grams, females ...
Primarily inhabiting montane evergreen and deciduous forests, shola-grassland mosaics, and well-wooded gardens at elevations typically above 900 meters.
Omnivorous, primarily feeding on invertebrates such as earthworms, insects, larvae, and snails, supplemented significantly by various fruits and berries.
Indian Blackbirds are generally diurnal, foraging actively during the day and roosting in dense foliage or tree cavities at night. Their foraging strategy primarily involves ground-pecking and probing for invertebrates, often seen flipping leaf litter, but they also climb trees for fruit. They ar...
The Indian Blackbird (Turdus simillimus) is primarily resident across its distribution in the Indian subcontinent and Sri Lanka. Its breeding range predominantly covers the Western Ghats mountain range in southern India, extending to the Nilgiri and Palni Hills, and into parts of central and east...
Least Concern
- The Indian Blackbird was historically considered a subspecies of the Common Blackbird (Turdus merula) before being elevated to its own species, Turdus simillimus, by some authorities, reflecting genetic distinctiveness. - Its bright yellow-orange bill and eye-ring in males are a key distinguish...