White-crested Laughingthrush

Garrulax leucolophus

Family: Laughingthrushes and Allies · Status: Common introduced resident · Size: 26–31 cm · Conservation: Least Concern

Range

Native to the Himalayas from Nepal east to northeastern India and adjacent Tibet, through Myanmar and Indochina.

Identification

Large laughingthrush with a white hood and long crest frequently raised, a broad black mask covering the lores and ear-coverts, white breast, and rufous-chestnut upperparts. The juvenile's crest is shorter, and its nape carries a more ashy-brown rather than gray tone.

Habitat

Forests with relatively sparse undergrowth.

Behaviour

Forages in flocks of 6–12 individuals, breaking up the soil and flicking leaves aside to expose invertebrates; highly noisy and gregarious.