Passeriformes / Leiothrichidae / Pterorhinus
Masked Laughingthrush
Pterorhinus perspicillatus · 黑脸噪鹛
Introduction
A species of laughingthrush in the genus Pterorhinus, found in China, Vietnam, Hong Kong, and Macau. It is monotypic with no recognized subspecies. A distinctive behavioral trait is occurring in small noisy flocks, often consisting of seven individuals.
Distribution & Habitat
Found in China, Vietnam, Hong Kong, and Macau. The type locality is restricted to Xiamen (formerly Amoy) in Fujian province. Habitat includes undergrowth, especially bamboo groves.
Behavior & Ecology
Often seen foraging through undergrowth, particularly in bamboo groves. Typically occurs in small noisy flocks of seven. Vocalizations include a strident 'pew!' call and various chattering noises.
Culture
The Chinese name qī zǐ-mèi means 'seven brothers and sisters', referencing its tendency to appear in flocks of seven.
Source: Wikipedia · CC BY-SA 3.0
Taxonomy
- Order
- Passeriformes
- Family
- Leiothrichidae
- Genus
- Pterorhinus
Taxonomy Changes
Garrulax perspicillatus → Pterorhinus perspicillatus
Genus transfer — GBIF Backbone Taxonomy uses the former name; AviList 2025 uses the current name.
Distribution
lowland scrub of southern China to Indochina
Vocalizations
Data Sources
Species description from Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Bird images and sounds sourced from GBIF, contributed by citizen scientists worldwide under Creative Commons licenses.
Taxonomy data from AviList 2025.
