Hello! Today, let’s talk about the charm of the Dusky thrush, a small bird fitting for the cold winter. The Dusky thrush is a bit larger than a sparrow, with a body length of about 24cm, and is a typical migratory bird of Japan during winter.
Firstly, the Dusky thrushes arrive in Japan around October, fleeing the harsh cold of Siberia. Their arrival truly marks the onset of autumn. These birds have beautiful speckled patterns on their chests and distinctive whitish eyebrows. Both males and females are similarly colored, though the males are slightly darker. In winter, they are often seen foraging on the ground.
Now, the way Dusky thrushes feed is quite unique. They flip over fallen leaves on the ground in search of worms and insects. They walk briskly for a few steps, then suddenly stop in place, reminiscent of children playing “Red Light, Green Light”. This brief pause might be a way for them to scan their surroundings and ensure safety. Also, Dusky thrushes are characterized by the way they perch on electric wires or branches. Their straight and proud posture is so distinctive that one can easily recognize them from afar, adding to their charm.
Unfortunately, there’s a bit of sad history: Dusky thrushes were once used for food. However, now, their capture and consumption are prohibited under wildlife protection laws.
If you’re interested in birdwatching, the Dusky thrush is highly recommended. Going out to look for them during winter can be a delightful experience. Paying attention to their small figures might give you a deeper appreciation of winter’s beauty. Surely, the Dusky thrushes will teach us about the splendor of winter.
