Turdus – True thrush

One of the most diverse and widespread groups of birds in the world. These birds are known for their melodious songs, striking plumage, and adaptability to various environments. They are found on every continent except Antarctica. Thrushes are medium-sized songbirds, typically ranging from 20 to 30 cm (8-12 in) in length. They have a generally robust build, with strong legs and feet adapted for foraging on the ground. Their plumage varies greatly among species but often includes shades of brown, gray, black, and white, with some species displaying more vibrant colors like orange and blue.

One of the most distinguishing features of thrushes is their vocal ability. Many species within the genus are renowned for their beautiful and complex songs, which they use for communication and territorial defense. These songs can be heard in a variety of habitats, from dense forests to suburban gardens. They are almost cosmopolitan in distribution, with species found in a wide range of habitats across the globe. These habitats include temperate and tropical forests, shrublands, grasslands, and urban areas. The adaptability of thrushes allows them to thrive in both wild and human-modified environments.

These birds are also known for their migratory behavior. Many species undertake long migrations between breeding and wintering grounds, with some traveling thousands of kilometers. For example, the American Robin migrates from northern breeding areas in Canada and the United States to southern wintering grounds in Mexico and Central America.