Bassian Thrush

Zoothera lunulata(Latham, 1801)

Least ConcernEndemic

Order: PASSERIFORMES
Family: Turdidae
Genus: Zoothera

Conservation: Least Concern
Commonness: Endemic
Best seen: Year-round

01 · Identification

How to tell it apart

The Bassian thrush, also known as the olive-tailed thrush, is a medium-sized mostly insectivorous thrush found from northern Queensland to southeastern Australia. It also occurs in Tasmania, on some larger islands of Bass Strait, and on Kangaroo Island. The thrushes range from 27 to 29 cm in length and average 100 g (3.5 oz) in weight.

Description · wikipedia · CC BY-SA 4.0

Field specs

Length: 25–30 cm
Weight: 75–142 g
Wingspan: 37 cm

Measurements · avonet · CC BY 4.0

Field tips

behaviour

Often 'freezes' in a rigid, upright posture when approached, relying on its scalloped pattern to blend into shadows and leaf litter while listening for prey.

flight

When flushed, watch for a bold, dark diagonal bar across the white underside of the wing as the bird flies low through the undergrowth.

plumage

Look for dense, black crescent-shaped 'scales' covering both the olive-brown back and pale breast, and a prominent, unbroken white ring around the eye.

size_and_shape

Typical thrush silhouette with a sturdy, upright stance and a relatively long, heavy bill that has a slightly hooked tip.

voice

Listen for a thin, high-pitched 'tsee' call; the song is a slow, mournful series of clear whistles, primarily heard at dawn and dusk.

02 · Where

Where to find it

Breeding range: North-east, south-east and south Australia and Tasmania

03 · When

When to look

Months this species is recorded across its Australian range.

05 · Behaviour

Habits and haunts

06 · Gallery

Plumage up close

2 photos

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How to tell it apart

Where to find it

When to look

Habits and haunts

Diet & foraging

Habitats

Range notes

Plumage up close

Log your next Bassian Thrush in the field