Updated
The Kivu ground thrush is a shy forest-floor thrush of the Albertine Rift mountains, with an orange head and breast, olive-brown back and bold white wing bars. Some authorities treat it as a full species, others as a form of the Abyssinian ground thrush. In Uganda it lives in the montane forest of Bwindi, especially around Ruhija, and is notoriously difficult to see, usually found hopping quietly in deep shade along trails at dawn or dusk.
Kivu Ground Thrush Uganda: Bwindi Forest Floor Bird Guide
Habits
It feeds on the ground, turning over leaf litter for worms, insects and snails, and freezes or flies off silently when disturbed. Its fluty song is heard mostly early in the morning. Because it prefers dark, damp gullies and dense undergrowth, patience and a quiet approach with a local bird guide are essential.
Where to look
Walk the trails around Ruhija slowly at first light, scanning the forest floor and the edges of trails, including the route towards Mubwindi Swamp. Other Albertine Rift ground birds there include Archer’s ground robin and the handsome francolin. The gorilla permit costs US$800, or US$600 in April, May and November. See our guides to Albertine Rift endemics, Archer’s ground robin, Ruhija and Bwindi’s birds.
Frequently asked questions
In Bwindi, mainly around Ruhija.
Some authorities split it from the Abyssinian ground thrush; others do not.
At dawn and dusk, along quiet trails.
Worms, insects and snails from the leaf litter.
