Natumann's Thrush

Walks or stops on the ground.

Scientific name	Turdus eunomus
English name	Natumann's Thrush
Japanese name	Tsugumi
Classification	Aves
Classification details	Passeriformes Turdidae
Full length	24cm
Distribution	All over Japan

Characteristics

Wild birds that can be seen all over Japan, such as riverbeds and parks. The top of the head and back are brown, and the belly is mottled in black and white. The beak is yellow at the base and black at the tip. It is about the size of a bulbul and walks or perches on the ground on warm winter and spring days. You can often see them digging in the ground with their bodies bent in a dogleg shape. When approaching a certain distance, it warns and jumps up while chirping. Sometimes perched on a branch.

Ecology

Inhabits grasslands, riverbeds, and parks. They eat insects and plant seeds on the ground. They fly to Japan in winter to overwinter. Depending on the amount of food in the vicinity, they may act alone or in groups.

Habitat

Often seen along the Asakawa River in Hachioji City. It's relatively easy to find because it appears in places where low grass grows instead of bushes. It is easy to recognize even from a distance because it is characterized by the way it moves while bouncing. In Asakawa, it often appears not only in the grasslands, but also on the riverbanks full of stones.