The Blue rock thrush (Monticola solitarius) is one of the most fascinating and abundant birds of The Ryukyu Islands. They are a common species found in urban areas. I have observed these birds eating food from peoples hands.
- Scientific name: (Monticola solitarius)
- Common Name: Blue Rock Thrush
- Distribution: Ryukyu Islands
- Habitat: Forests, Parks, and local neighbors
- Diet: Butterflies, moths, spiders, caterpillars, and fruit
- Average Size: 25cm
The female is all brown with a striped pattern. The male is dark blue with an orange breast and belly.
Female rock thrush © Shawn Miller
Male Rock Thrush © Shawn Miller
Breeding season occurs April through July. When the Hatchling emerge the parents are on high alert and become noisy and aggressive defending their young.
Moma on Duty © Shawn Miller
Daddy on duty © Shawn Miller
This young hatchling left the nest prematurely. It survived four full days roaming the neighborhood wisely on the ground.
Hatchling searching for shelter © Shawn Miller
Somewhere on its journey, it picked up some fishing line.
Hatchling and fishing line © Shawn Miller
These birds are curious and intelligent birds. A wide-angle macro perspective of the male blue rock thrush with its wings spread.
Blue rock-thrush with wings spread © Shawn Miller
Look close and you can see the nicitating membrane, its used to protect and moisten the eye.
Blue rock-thrush drying off © Shawn Miller
We pulled up to a fight scene. A rock thrush and a praying mantis fighting in the middle of the road. The rock-thrush flew away and the praying mantis stood its ground. Photographed using my iPhone.
Fighting pose © Shawn Miller
Know your Nature with Shawn Miller.
