Pterorhinus delesserti
The Wayanad Laughingthrush, *Pterorhinus delesserti*, is a striking member of the Leiothrichidae family, endemic to the Western Ghats of southern India. This medium-sized passerine, typically measuring 22-24 cm (8.7-9.4 in) in length and weighing around 55-65 grams, is easily identified by its distinctive slate-grey head and nape, which contrasts sharply with its bright chestnut underparts and rich olive-brown upperparts. A prominent white supercilium above the eye, extending as a short, brok...
Found primarily in dense evergreen and moist deciduous forests, often preferring areas with thick undergrowth and bamboo. It inhabits montane shola-grassland edges and coffee plantations at elevations typically ranging from 600 to 1,400 meters (2,000 to 4,600 ft).
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on a wide variety of insects, their larvae, and other small invertebrates. They also consume some berries and seeds, especially during fruiting seasons, foraging mainly by gleaning from the ground and low vegetation.
The Wayanad Laughingthrush is a diurnal and often gregarious bird, typically observed in small family parties or foraging groups of 5-15 individuals, frequently joining mixed-species flocks. They are primarily ground foragers, meticulously sifting through leaf litter and dense undergrowth using t...
The Wayanad Laughingthrush is strictly endemic to the Western Ghats mountain range in southern India, with its distribution concentrated in the states of Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. Its breeding range encompasses moist evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, particularly within areas like Wa...
Least Concern
- The Wayanad Laughingthrush's scientific name honors Frédéric de Lalande Delessert, a French botanist and zoologist, whose collection included the type specimen. - Its distinctive calls are often described as a series of chattering cackles, whistles, and gurgles, earning it the 'laughingthrush' ...