The masked laughingthrush (Pterorhinus perspicillatus ) is a species of laughingthrush found in China and Vietnam. It is often seen in small noisy flocks of seven. Its Chinese name means 'seven sisters'.
This species was formerly placed in the genus Garrulax but following the publication of a comprehensive molecular phylogenetic study in 2018, it was moved to the resurrected genus Pterorhinus.
A rowdy and sociable inhabitant of gardens, parks, and shrubby thickets, this long-tailed, black-eared bird is unmistakable. Upper body is dark gray overall, with brown primarily on the belly but also with some in the wings. Vent area is a dirty rufous color, often seen as the bird intermittently pumps its tail while foraging. Bold, often foraging out in the open on lawns and field edges, but even when hidden, its harsh chattering will give it away.
Masked Laughingthrush has a conspicuous black mask on its face. It favours forest undergrowth and usually gathers in small flocks. It is featured with its loud, scolding calls of 'piaw-piaw'.
About 30 cm long. Mainly brown in plumage with black mask and cinnamon vent. Often appears in small noisy parties of about 7 (colloquial Chinese name is “seven sisters”) in thick undergrowth. Loud and strident calls.
Resident in Hong Kong. Often seen in countryside undergrowth and major urban parks.
Often gathers in small flocks in undergrowth and on the ground feeding on insects and fruits.
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