Zoothera heinei
The Russet-tailed Thrush, Zoothera heinei, is a medium-sized songbird belonging to the true thrush family (Turdidae), often considered part of the broader White's Thrush complex (Zoothera dauma sensu lato). Measuring approximately 24-27 cm in length and weighing 80-120 grams, this cryptically patterned thrush is best recognized by its olive-brown upperparts and a distinctly rufous-chestnut (russet) tail, which is particularly noticeable in flight. Its underparts are a pale white or buff, heav...
Primarily inhabits moist, dense forests, including rainforests, wet sclerophyll forests, and adjacent woodlands, often near watercourses or in damp gullies, typically from sea level up to 1,500 meters.
Feeds primarily on a variety of invertebrates including earthworms, snails, beetles, larvae, and other insects, occasionally supplementing with small amounts of fallen fruit; it forages almost exclusively on the forest floor.
A largely terrestrial and secretive species, the Russet-tailed Thrush spends much of its day foraging alone or in pairs, often in deep shade, becoming more active at dawn and dusk. Its foraging strategy involves 'thrashing' through leaf litter with its bill and feet, tossing leaves aside to uncov...
The Russet-tailed Thrush exhibits a fascinating migratory pattern, breeding primarily in eastern Australia, particularly along the Great Dividing Range in Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria. Following the breeding season, most Australian populations undertake an annual northward migration ...
Least Concern
- The Russet-tailed Thrush was formerly considered a subspecies of the widespread White's Thrush (Zoothera dauma) complex before being elevated to full species status. - It is a partial migrant, with Australian populations undertaking significant over-water migrations across the Torres Strait to ...