Blue Rock-thrush
Least ConcernMonticola solitarius
Visual Identification
Blue Rock-thrush
Appearance
The Blue Rock-thrush is a small thrush with a distinctive appearance. Males boast a striking, deep blue plumage covering most of their body, with slightly darker wings and tails. Their slender black bill and legs contrast sharply with their vibrant feathers.
Females and juveniles differ significantly from males, with a mottled brown plumage with subtle barring. This dimorphism aids in camouflage during nesting.
Size
Length
21cm to 23cm
Wingspan
33cm to 37cm
Weight
40g to 70g
Habitat and Distribution
Habitats
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Distribution
Blue Rock-thrushes inhabit a wide range of rocky environments, from coastal cliffs and rocky hillsides to mountains and urban areas with old buildings or ruins. They are found across southern Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia, extending east to Japan and the Philippines.
In winter, some populations migrate to warmer regions, including North Africa and the Middle East. They are occasional vagrants in the UK, particularly in autumn and winter.
Elevation Range
Sea level to 3,600 meters
Climate zones
Mediterranean, Subtropical, Temperate
Distribution Map
Distribution by Region
Behaviour and Ecology
Bird Attributes
Hover over the icon next to each attribute for more information.
Tap the icon next to each attribute for more information.
Diet
The Blue Rock-thrush's diet primarily consists of insects, spiders, and small invertebrates. They also consume berries and small fruits, especially during autumn and winter.
These ground-feeding birds often hunt by pouncing on prey from elevated perches, showcasing their agility and keen eyesight. Depending upon location, they may also also take lizards, mice and snakes.
Behaviour
Blue Rock-thrushes are known for their solitary nature and preference for high perches. They often stand upright on rocks or buildings, scanning for prey.
During courtship, males perform impressive aerial displays, singing while flying upwards before gliding back down to their perch.
Vocalisation
Nesting & Breeding
Breeding season for Blue Rock-thrushes typically begins in April and extends through July. Males establish territories and attract females with their melodious songs and aerial displays.
Nests are built in rock crevices, holes in buildings, or among ruins, usually by the female. They are cup-shaped structures made of grass, moss, and roots. Females lay 3-5 pale blue eggs with reddish-brown spots.
Incubation lasts about 14-15 days, and the female primarily carries out the process. Both parents feed the nestlings, which fledge after approximately 15-18 days. Pairs often raise two broods per season in favourable conditions.
Lifespan
years
The Blue Rock-thrush typically lives for 5 to 10 years.
Like all birds, lifespan can be affected by factors including predation, habitat quality, disease, and access to food sources.
Conservation and Status
Global Conservation Status
While the Blue Rock-thrush is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, it faces localised threats from habitat loss due to coastal development and climate change.
Conservation efforts focus on preserving rocky habitats and monitoring population trends across its range.
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for them perched prominently on rocks, buildings, or ruins
- Listen for their melodious song, especially at dawn and dusk
- Scan coastal cliffs and rocky hillsides in Mediterranean regions
- Be patient, as they can be shy and quick to fly off when approached
Additional Information
Quick Facts
Other names:
Blue Rock Thrush, Blue Thrush
Family:
MuscicapidaePredators
Did You Know?
- Blue Rock-thrushes can survive in urban environments, often nesting on buildings that resemble their natural rocky habitats.
- They are known to incorporate human-made objects, such as plastic or metal pieces, into their nests.
- In some cultures, the Blue Rock-thrush is considered a symbol of fidelity due to its tendency to form long-term pair bonds.
Was this bird profile helpful?
Your feedback helps us improve our content
Community Experience
Community Ratings
No ratings yet - be the first to rate this bird!
Latest Community Reviews
No reviews yet
Sign in to be the first to review
References
- 1 2 3
website: BirdLife International. 2016. Monticola solitarius. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2016: e.T22708286A87933903.
View source