Blue Whistling-Thrush

A large, dark thrush of forested streams and rocky ravines across much of Asia, from the Himalayan foothills to parts of Southeast Asia and China, foraging on wet rocks and streambeds for aquatic insects, snails and small crustaceans. Its plumage appears almost black in shade but shows a glossy blue sheen in good light, and its rich, fluty, almost human-whistled song carries along forest streams at dawn and dusk. Following a shaded mountain stream slowly and quietly, especially early or late in the day, is the most reliable way to find it.