Turdus sanchezorum
The Varzea Thrush (*Turdus sanchezorum*) is a medium-sized songbird, measuring approximately 22-24 cm (8.7-9.4 inches) in length, with a slender build characteristic of its genus. Its plumage is predominantly grayish-brown, often exhibiting a subtle rufous wash on the flanks and undertail coverts, providing a warm contrast to its otherwise muted tones. A key diagnostic feature for identification is its bright yellow bill, which is unspotted and contrasts sharply with its pale, cream-colored e...
Exclusively inhabits periodically flooded forests (várzea) and transitional forest edges along major Amazonian rivers, typically at elevations below 300 meters.
Feeds predominantly on invertebrates, including insects and earthworms, supplemented significantly by a variety of forest fruits.
Varzea Thrushes are primarily diurnal, actively foraging during daylight hours and roosting communally or solitarily within the dense canopy of their várzea forest habitat at night. They are adept ground-gleaners, sifting through leaf litter for invertebrates, but also ascend into the sub-canopy ...
The Varzea Thrush is a resident species found exclusively within the western Amazon basin of South America. Its primary distribution includes southeastern Peru, particularly in the departments of Loreto, Ucayali, and Madre de Dios, extending into southwestern Brazil across the states of Acre, Ama...
Least Concern
- The Varzea Thrush was only recognized as a full species in 2007, having previously been lumped with the Lawrence's Thrush (*Turdus lawrencii*) due to subtle but distinct morphological and vocal differences. - Its name, "Varzea Thrush," directly refers to its highly specialized habitat: the Amaz...