Nowadays, with the increasing power of media popularization, we have a better understanding of the law and wildlife protection. Previously, many people may not have been aware of the legal risks behind the act of raising thrushes. But now, with the popularity of popular science programs, articles, and social media, people are beginning to realize the importance of protecting wildlife. It is no longer the same as before, and it is no longer because of the constraints of the law, but also because of people's inner awakening.
• In the past, many people were relatively indifferent to wild thrushes, and some people even caught or harmed them at will. But now, with increased awareness of conservation, the situation has changed dramatically. Now in parks, more and more people stop to enjoy them singing instead of bothering. This change in attitude stems from people's attention to the ecological environment and biodiversity. Media education plays an important role in educating the public about wildlife conservation in a variety of ways, making people understand that every life deserves respect.
The criminals are preparing to hunt the thrush
• For example, it was not known how hunting thrushes or destroying their habitat would affect the environment. But now, more and more people are beginning to understand that protecting wildlife is actually protecting our home. This kind of awakening attitude is a sign of the progress of human civilization. It embodies our love for the natural world. Through such changes, we create a more harmonious environment for the next generation.
• I found that some people still see thrushes as one of the "five evils" because of Xi. Many people think that the thrush chirps as if it is making trouble. But in fact, this perception is completely wrong. In fact, thrushes play a very important role in nature. Not only do they help us control pests and maintain ecological balance, but they also add a lot of vitality to our environment. Without these lively birds, our world would be so monotonous. So, we need to change the old way we think about thrushes. They are not the "five evils", but valuable members of our natural environment. Protecting thrushes is protecting our ecological environment.
A thrush caught by an unscrupulous bird net
Before understanding whether it is illegal to raise a thrush, let me explain the specific information of the thrush.
• The unique appearance of the thrush:
• The identification of thrushes is mainly based on their appearance and song. Although male and female thrushes are very similar in appearance, careful observation and listening can distinguish them. Both male and female thrushes have similar plumage colors, and both exhibit a soft tan hue. But an attentive observer will notice that male thrushes are often more distinctly colored, especially during the breeding season. The most obvious difference between male and female thrushes is their chirp. Male thrushes often have louder and more complex calls, which they use to attract females and mark territory. In contrast, females have softer and simpler calls.
• The fledglings have lighter plumage than adults and are brown in color, which helps them hide themselves better in their natural environment to prevent predator attacks. As it grows, the feathers of the thrush will gradually darken, and the mature thrush will have a richer and more vivid feather color. This change is not only a sign of growth, but also a sign that they are entering maturity. The transition from chick to adult is accompanied by a significant change in plumage. These changes reflect not only their growth process, but also natural selection and adaptation strategies. However, chicks have relatively light feathers and usually exhibit a lighter brown hue. This color helps them to camouflage better in the environment they inhabit and avoid being targeted by predators. The change in feather color reflects the thrush's strategy of adapting to its environment. Protection is key in early childhood, and it becomes even more important to show yourself and attract a spouse as an adult.
Thrush resting on a branch
• Each part of an adult thrush has its own unique characteristics, from their head to tail, each revealing their ingenious design to adapt to their natural environment. Their head feathers have a tan hue that contrasts with the dark brown eye and ear feathers. This color combination is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also helps the thrush to camouflage in the woods. The upper body, including the wings, is brownish-olive-brown, while the flight feathers are dark brown. The combination of these colors makes the thrush more elegant when flying, while also helping them to hide among the leaves. Tail feathers are dark brown or dark brown with less pronounced black-brown transverse spots. However, the chin, throat and upper thorax of thrushes are brownish-yellow with black-brown longitudinal stripes. These longitudinal lines not only add visual layering, but also play a certain role in social interactions. The abdomen is grayish , the flanks are dark and there are no obvious longitudinal stripes , and the underwing overlies are brownish yellow , which are related to their flight Xi and protective color at rest.
• The body structure of an adult thrush shows the streamlined elegance of nature. Their size and plumage characteristics reflect not only aesthetic elegance but also adaptive intelligence. They are slender and have a slightly pointed tip and a larger shuttle in the middle. This streamlined body shape helps them move flexibly through dense forests, whether flying or jumping from branch to branch. Adult thrushes typically have olive-colored upper body feathers, while lower belly feathers are greenish-brown or yellowish-brown. The small central part of the underbelly is grayish-white, and the transition and distribution of this color adds to their beauty.
• They have darker feathers on their head, thorax, and neck, with black stripes or horizontal stripes, while their tail feathers are also dark. These dark feathers and textures enhance their visual effect. The eye circles are white, and there is a white eyebrow line around the eye, which extends evenly from front to back, giving it an elegant moth eyebrow shape. The muzzale (beak) is a structure about 20-25 mm long. The upper muzzle is slightly longer than the lower muzzle and is brownish-black, while the lower muzzle is lighter in color. This muzzale structure helps them survive in nature, whether it's foraging for food or singing. The physical characteristics of thrushes not only demonstrate their grace and beauty in nature, but also their unique adaptability and functionality as birds.
• The white eye circles and eyebrow lines of thrushes are one of their most characteristic physical features, which not only add to their beauty, but also play an important role in their life Xi. The stark contrast between the stark white circles of the eyes not only makes their faces more striking, but may also help them better visually identify their own creatures and other creatures in complex forest environments, with their white brow lines extending back from the eye circles to create an elegant moth-like eyebrow. Not only are these eyebrow lines an important part of their beautiful appearance, but they may also play a key role in their social and courtship behavior.
• The beak carapace, or beak, of thrushes is a key feature of them, playing an important role not only in their physiological functions, but also in their daily behavior and social interactions. Their beak nails are about 20-25 mm long and have a structure. The upper mouth nails are slightly longer than the lower mouth nails and are darker in color, while the lower mouth nails are relatively lighter. This structure allows the thrush to hunt and groom its feathers efficiently. It can also be used to hunt insects and ingest plant food, build nests, defend territory, and socialize. During courtship, males also use their beak armor to make various calls to attract females. Most importantly, the opening, closing, and control of the mouth nail is also crucial to the sound quality and volume of the voice. Their precise muzzle control makes for a pleasant sound.
A thrush standing on the lookout of dead wood
• The thrush's nostrils and mustache, although less visible in appearance, play an important biological role, reflecting the bird's subtle adaptation to its natural environment. The nostrils, located on both sides of the upper upper part of the back of the upper beak nail, are essential for the thrush. Not only are they used for breathing, but may also be associated with the sense of smell, helping thrushes detect food and perceive their surroundings. The black mustache (commonly known as the beard) that grows near the forehead, while adding a touch of rugged beauty to the appearance, may actually be used to protect the nostrils from dust and small debris. These nostrils and mustaches may be an important part of the thrush's sensory system, especially in a complex and varied natural environment, where these features provide the sensory information needed to survive.
• Their eyes are not only the visual focal point, but also the key to thrush's survival skills. These eyes are structurally complex and versatile, allowing them to navigate and forage effectively in a variety of environments. Because the eye is rounded, this structure helps to provide a wider field of vision. This is essential for a bird that needs to react quickly in the woods. This, combined with the optochrome in their eyes, produces a variety of brilliant "eye sand" colors, which not only adds to their beauty, but may also play a role in social and courtship behavior. And that instantaneous membrane is a key part of the thrush's eyeball. This transparent membrane closes during flight or danger, protecting the eyeball from damage. The eyeball's outermost ring, which also acts as a protective effect, helps reduce the impact of dust and particles from the outside world. And the ear holes behind the eyes and the ear feathers around them help the thrush to collect sound waves more efficiently. This is an important survival skill, especially in dense wooded environments.
• Wings and the ability to fly are another highlight in their biology, showcasing their unique adaptability and grace as thrushes. The wings are long and structurally complex, with flight feathers extending from the forechest to the dorsal part, with a total length of about 75 mm. The wings are designed to allow them to fly efficiently and make quick changes of direction when needed. When the wings are unfolded, they are about 90-110 mm wide on the left and right. This makes them more stable and agile when flying, especially when navigating dense forest environments. However, thrushes lack sweat glands, but they do have an important skin gland, the caudal fat gland, located at the base of the tail feathers. The oil secreted by this gland helps keep the feathers flexible and waterproof. The thrush's ability to fly reflects their adaptation to their natural environment, and whether it's foraging for food or evading predators, their flying skills are key to survival. However, thrushes also often use their beaks to comb their feathers, using the oil secreted by the tail fat glands to apply to the feathers, which not only keeps the feathers soft and shiny, but also improves the waterproofing ability of the feathers.
A thrush flying in the woods
• Thrushes' bodies are more than functional, their various parts also present unique and beautiful colors, such as the iris, beak, and feet. These colors are not just decorative in appearance, but also have special biological significance. Their irises are usually orange-yellow or yellow, a bright color that may be associated with visual function and may also play a role in social interactions. Thrushes have an orange upper beak and an olive yellow underbeak, and this color difference not only adds to their physical appeal, but may also be an important sign of intraspecific identification. The feet are usually yellowish-brown or light-colored, and this color may be related to their camouflage in the natural environment, but also reflect the strength and health of their feet.
• The living environment of the thrush:
• Their habitat is mostly located in the subtropical climate zone, which is characterized by being warm and humid, providing an ideal living environment for thrushes. In fact, the warm climate in this subtropical region means that thrushes enjoy suitable temperatures throughout the year, which is very important for their activities and reproduction. In such climates, thrushes do not need to migrate long distances in search of warm habitats, and they can live in the same area all year round. In addition, a warm climate also means an abundance of food resources. In subtropical climates, insects and plant fruits have better growing conditions throughout the year, providing a stable source of food for thrushes. Such an environment allows thrushes to find food more easily and more time for socializing and breeding.
• Water plays an important role in the life of the thrush. Subtropical areas are usually blessed with abundant rainfall, with rivers and creeks crisscrossing them, providing an abundant source of fresh water for thrushes. The abundance of water not only means the convenience of drinking water, but also provides opportunities for bathing and swimming for the thrush. Just as humans enjoy bathing, thrushes also like to clean their feathers in the water, which is important for them to keep their feathers clean and healthy. Around the subtropical waters, thrushes can also find more food resources. For example, they can catch insects and small aquatic animals near the water, which are an important part of their diet.
• Thrushes love to move around forest edges and farmland. These places provide an abundant source of food and a safe habitat. In the fields, thrushes can prey on insects on crops, helping farmers control pests, forming a relationship of coexistence with human activities. As urbanization progresses, some thrushes also begin to adapt to the urban environment. They can find habitat in the city's parks, courtyards, and green belts, while also benefiting from the food resources provided by humans. This adaptation shows the thrush's flexibility to environmental changes. Mainly in the subtropics, there is a wide variety of plants, which provide a rich food choice for thrushes. From fruits to seeds to small insects, these are all part of the thrush's diet. Different types of vegetation also provide them with different habitats and shelters. Insects and fruits are important food sources for thrushes. The diversity of their diets not only guarantees a balanced nutrition, but also reflects their position in the food chain. The dietary Xi of thrushes also has a positive effect on the control of some pests and helps to maintain ecological balance.
A thrush foraging for food
• In the thrush's habitat, the diversity of vegetation is central to its ecosystem. Forests, shrublands and bamboo forests in the subtropics provide an abundant natural resource for thrushes. The plant coverage of these areas ranges from low shrubs to tall trees, creating a complex ecological hierarchy that meets the diverse needs of the thrush, which not only provides shelter and habitat, but also provides food for the thrush, such as insects, fruits, and seeds. This variety of food sources helps thrushes survive and reproduce throughout the year. Especially during the breeding season. The abundance of insects contributes to the growth of chicks and the health of adults. And in the food chain, thrushes also help the spread of plants by eating fruits and seeds. This mutually beneficial symbiotic relationship shows the important role that thrushes play in the ecosystem.
• Unlike other migratory birds, thrushes choose to spend their lives in a fixed area. These areas are usually low hills, shrublands, and groves near villages. This way of life has its own special ecological significance. First of all, as resident birds, thrushes have a deep understanding of their habitat. They know where to find food, how to hide from predators in the woods, and the best breeding spots. This familiarity allows them to survive and reproduce more efficiently. Secondly, a fixed habitat is also very important for the thrush to reproduce. Since they don't need to migrate long distances, they can devote more time and energy to raising their offspring. In a familiar environment, the parent bird can better protect and raise the chicks, which increases the survival rate. In addition, the Xi of thrushes in choosing a fixed habitat also reflects their close connection to a specific environment. Adaptability to the natural environment and sensitivity to environmental changes.
• Thrushes usually inhabit low hills, abundant scrublands and low forests below 1500 meters above sea level. They are also found in broad-leaved forests, coniferous forests, bamboo forests, and shrublands at higher altitudes. These areas provide an abundant source of food and good shelter. Thrushes can easily find food such as insects, seeds, and fruits in the bushes, while also hiding from predators in the woods to protect themselves and their chicks. In broadleaf and coniferous forests, thrushes can enjoy cooler climates, while these areas also provide them with abundant food and safe breeding grounds. In addition, bamboo forests and bushes on the edge of the countryside are also frequent places for them.
• Oddly enough, thrushes are very socially active, they can move alone or in small groups. This flexible social Xi is relatively rare in the bird world, reflecting the thrush's ability to adapt to different environments. When alone, thrushes are more flexible in exploring food and habitat, reducing competition with their own kind. This pattern of behavior helps them survive when food is scarce. When thrushes form small flocks, they can share food sources to improve the survival chances of the entire group. During the breeding season, group activities are also beneficial for finding mates and protecting chicks.
A thrush female growing fluff
• The thrush's emphasis on cleanliness and personal hygiene is one of its distinctive features. The Xi of bathing almost every day not only helps to keep the feathers healthy, but also helps to prevent parasites and diseases. Through bathing, thrushes are able to remove dust, dirt, and parasites from their feathers, keeping them light and warm, which is essential for flight and thermoregulation. Regular bathing also helps the thrush to maintain a healthy skin condition and prevents skin diseases and parasites. This Xi reflects the thrush's instinctive concern for health. However, regular bathing is essential for thrushes. Not only does this help them remove dust and dirt from their feathers, but it also helps to get rid of possible parasites and bacteria on the skin. This Xi is key to the thrush's ability to maintain the shine of its feathers and its ability to fly. Bathing also helps the thrush maintain its excellent feathers. The cleanliness and health of the feathers are essential for maintaining body temperature, waterproofing, and effective flying. In addition, bathing is also a social activity that helps to strengthen group bonds among thrushes.
A thrush bathing in the river
• Thrushes are known to be known for their alert and stealthy behavior. They excel at navigating dense bushes, which allows them to effectively avoid predators and forage for food. The color of the thrush's feathers blends in with the natural environment, and this camouflage trick helps them survive unnoticed. Although thrushes are timid, they are very sensitive to their surroundings. Able to quickly sense movement around them, and quickly hide or fly away if they feel threatened. When faced with threats, thrushes usually choose to hide or flee. This behavior of theirs embodies the organism's instinctive response to existential threats. Although not good at flying long distances, they have an impressive speed at short distances.
• Recipe for thrushes:
• The thrush is a bird with omnivorous Xi and they have a very wide range of food options. This flexible feeding habit allows thrushes to find suitable food sources in different environments, allowing them to survive in a variety of ecosystems. The omnivorous nature also allows the thrush to adjust its diet in different seasons and at different stages of growth to meet its changing nutritional needs. When it comes to food choices, thrushes often adapt their diets to the seasons and changes in available food resources. Their diet includes both animal foods, such as insects, and plant foods, such as seeds and seeds. This omnivorous nature not only reflects the thrush's adaptability to food resources, but also demonstrates their versatility in the ecosystem.
• They have a special preference for catching insects in their daily diet, especially during the breeding season. Insects, such as locusts, tsubaki elephants, pine caterpillars, tortoise shells, and larvae of various moths, form a major part of their diet. These insects not only provide the thrush with essential protein and other nutrients, but also help them maintain energy balance and growth. During the breeding season, thrushes prey on insects in large quantities in order to raise their chicks. At this time, insects become a major component of their diet. The high protein content of insects is essential for fast-growing chicks, as they provide them with the energy and nutrients they need to grow and develop. At the same time, this predation also plays a role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem, because many of the insects that thrushes prey on are agricultural and forestry pests. This predatory behavior of thrushes shows their important role in the ecosystem, not only as predators to control pest populations, but also as predators to sustain the survival of other predators, such as birds of prey. Therefore, thrushes play an important role in the ecological chain.
The thrush's favorite eating locust
• When insects were not readily available, plant-based foods became the main source of the thrush's diet. They look for fruits and seeds, which not only help them stay healthy, but also prepare the necessary energy reserves for winter. And during the non-breeding season, especially from autumn to beyond, insect populations begin to decline, and thrushes' dietary Xi slowly shift to plant-based foods. They feed mainly on fruits, seeds, grass seeds, wild fruits, and strawberries from various plants. This change in dietary Xi not only satisfies their nutritional needs, but also reflects their ability to adapt to changes in their environment.
• Thrushes in the mountains will exhibit unique food storage behaviors. Before winter approaches, they collect fruits and seeds, hiding them in burrows or crevices near rocks as a winter food reserve. This behavior is essential to ensure the food supply during the overwintering period, and it also demonstrates the thrush's survival wisdom in its natural environment. In addition, thrushes occasionally peck at legume crops and corn seedlings in early spring. While this may have some impact on crops, overall, the positive effects of thrushes in controlling pests far outweigh their potential impact on crops.
• The breeding process of thrushes:
When spring comes, when everything comes back and flowers bloom, it is also the season when many birds begin their courtship and breeding. At this time of life, there is a special bird and that is the thrush, which attracts the attention of many nature watchers and bird lovers with their unique courtship style and charm.
• The thrush, a small, elegant-looking bird, is known not only for its beautiful plumage and melodious singing, but also for its unique courtship behavior. Their breeding season is usually between April and July. During this time, the thrush undergoes a series of complex and wonderful courtship and breeding activities. They reproduce twice a year, laying about 3 to 5 eggs in each nest. At this time, when the flowers bloom and the plants turn green in spring, the world of thrushes becomes particularly lively. Male thrushes make pleasant calls, which is not only their way of presenting themselves, but also their way of attracting females. Their chirping echoes through the forests in spring, adding a unique dimension to the whole of nature. This special season is not only crucial for the thrush, but also gives us humans the opportunity to observe and appreciate these little artists in nature more closely. The breeding season of thrushes is undoubtedly the best time to explore their living Xi.
Two thrushes courting
• During the breeding season, thrushes show the subtlety of their biological instincts. Every year, they reproduce twice or more, and this frequent reproductive behavior is essential for maintaining the population size and health. And the birds hatched from these eggs are the hope of the future population of thrushes. The thrush's breeding season is not only an important part of their lives, but also a delicate balance in nature. By reproducing in this way, thrushes are able to ensure that their populations remain alive in nature. And for observers, it is also an excellent opportunity to understand and study the Xi of thrushes.
• During the season, the behavior and Xi of the thrush will change to adapt to the needs of breeding. From nesting and laying eggs to hatching and nurturing the next generation, every step embodies the wisdom of nature and the miracle of life. And these are quietly staged when the spring flowers are blooming. During this time, the world of thrushes is full of energy and passion. Male thrushes become particularly active, and they use various ways to attract the attention of females. From passionate singing to graceful dancing, the male thrush does everything in his power to win the hearts of the female. On the stage of nature, these performances are not only for the sake of reproduction, but also a display of vitality.
• When the courtship season of the thrush arrives, the whole forest seems to be transformed into a large concert scene, and the song of the male thrush is the star of the concert. Their singing voices are high-pitched and varied, showing both their singing talent and their affection for females. These vocals are not just a tool for courtship, but also their innate artistic talent. In this season of glamour, the life of the thrush is full of romance and competition. Their courtship behaviour is not only a reflection of the wonders of biodiversity, but also part of the beautiful melodies of nature. Through these behaviors, thrushes not only pass on their genes, but also their culture and Xi.
Male thrush singing in the wild
• Their breeding season, most notably the male thrush, exhibits extremely rich and complex behaviour during courtship. These behaviors are not just to attract females, but are the key to their reproductive success. First, the male thrush will attract the attention of the female by singing loudly. Their singing voices are not only loud but also varied, capable of conveying strong emotions and courtship intentions. At the first rays of the morning sun, or in the evening when the sun sets, the male thrushes sing especially loudly and melodiously, as if to announce their existence and determination to courtship to the whole world. In addition to singing, male thrushes also show their charm through various body movements. They may jump on branches or make a series of complex movements and gestures, all to show the female their vitality and health. Sometimes, they even mimic the calls of other birds or sounds in their environment to show their intelligence and adaptability.
• The period from around Qingming to the summer solstice is the climax of the thrush breeding season. And it all started with the courtship behavior of male thrushes. They first come into heat and then attract the attention of the female by constantly singing loudly and expressing their affection. During this courtship, the male bird is not only showing affection, but also warning other possible rivals. Through their songs and actions, they declare their territory and their protection of their mates. This behavior is very common in the bird world and is a way to protect one's reproductive rights.
• The thrush has a very well-developed auditory organ, is extremely sensitive to the vibrations of audio, and reacts very quickly. This makes them particularly good singers during the breeding season. The male bird's song is high-pitched, elaborate, and persistent, very beautiful. Their singing is arguably one of the most beautiful melodies in nature. Especially in the early morning and late afternoon, the chirping of male birds is particularly frequent and intense. The fast-paced cries are agitated and unrestrained, while the slow-paced ones are like flowing water, full of poetry and musicality. Their continuous chirping for a long time seems to tell one moving love story after another, which is moving. Because of these qualities, the thrush is known as the "singer of the woods" or "bird singer". Their singing is not only a beautiful sight in nature, but also a unique cultural symbol in the world of birds.
During the courtship season of the thrush, in addition to the beautiful singing and romantic atmosphere, there is also a hidden war about the territory, which is not only about love, but also about survival.
• Male thrushes show a strong sense of territory during the breeding season. They sing not only to attract females, but also to demarcate their territory and tell other males that this is their territory. When other males try to invade their territory or approach their females, thrushes take active defensive measures. This may include louder and more intense singing, or even outright physical confrontation. In this contest of territory, singing is not only a means of courtship, but also a way to show strength and beauty. The thrush's ability to sing becomes especially important at this time, not only to attract females, but also to deter opponents.
• This sense of territory and competitive behavior is part of the thrush's survival strategy and is the result of natural selection. In this way, the thrush not only guarantees its right to breed, but also ensures the health and stability of the population. In the world of thrushes, territorial consciousness and competition are not only a war of survival, but also a manifestation of vitality. In the process, they show the pristine beauty of nature and the tenacity of life. Especially in times of intense competition, male thrushes also show their fighting skills. When there are multiple males competing around a female, they will determine who is the strongest male through direct physical altercation. These fights, while intense, tend not to cause serious injuries, and they are more about showing strength. Through these strategies, male thrushes are not only able to attract females, but also gain an advantage in intense natural selection. These complex and intriguing courtship behaviors not only show the diversity of the thrush species, but also give us a deeper understanding and awe of the wonders of the natural world.
An aspect that should not be overlooked in the courtship behavior of thrushes is their artistic performance during courtship. These performances are not only a display of biological instincts, but also an important part of the thrush's social interaction and breeding strategy.
• During courtship season, the male thrush performs a series of movements and gestures on the branches. These performances are not only a demonstration of physical strength, but also a manifestation of their artistic charm. They will jump lightly, imitate some graceful steps, and sometimes even make pretentious movements, as if they were putting on a good show on a forest stage.
• The male thrush's song is more than just an ordinary chirp. In this special season, their singing becomes more high-pitched, passionate, and at the same time full of emotion and charm. They use different tones and rhythms to attract females and show off their singing talents. In the early morning or evening, their singing is especially frequent and persistent, as if they are telling their love story with music. In this courtship arena, competition between male thrushes is inevitable. Not only do they have to attract females through their singing and movements, but they also have to stand out from the crowd of competitors. These rivalries, although sometimes turned into fights, were more often won over by showing off their singing and dancing abilities.
Thrushes in a fight
• Thrush is an unavoidable theme of competition and conflict during this phase of courtship. These natural behaviors are not only part of the courtship process, but also an important component of the thrush's social structure and survival strategy. Competition becomes especially fierce when multiple males appear around a female thrush. Each male tries to show himself as the best mate choice. This rivalry is not only manifested through singing and dancing performances, but can also evolve into physical confrontation. At this time, the competition between male thrushes often escalates into direct physical confrontation. These fights are fought to prove their superiority and win the favor of the female bird. As ferocious as it sounds, most of these conflicts are ritualistic and designed to show rather than actually hurt the other person.
• The bravery and skill shown by the thrush in the fight earned them the title of "Hero Bird". They use a variety of techniques such as grabbing, pecking, and rolling in combat, showing great adaptability and survival skills. In battle, thrushes use their bodies and feathers flexibly. They may quickly scurry through the air or roll quickly on the ground to confuse their opponents. At the same time, they will also use methods such as pecking and scratching to show their strength.
• Thrushes show amazing combat skills in confrontations. They use a variety of techniques such as grabbing, pecking, and rolling when fighting, showing a strong determination to courtship and a sense of territory. Such fights, although they may seem intense, are often a symbolic display designed to prove one's superiority. In this courtship competition, the female thrush usually observes and ultimately chooses the males who perform best in the competition as mates. This choice is based not only on the appearance and singing of the males, but also on how well they perform in confrontation. However, despite the passionate behavior of thrushes during courtship, their family structure is relatively short-lived. Once the chicks are able to live independently, the newly established family dissolves and the parents go on their own to find a new mate and start a new breeding cycle. These fights, while to some extent part of the thrush's courtship behavior, can also cause some stress on them. Luckily, most of the fights don't result in serious injuries, they're more about showing courage.
Once the thrush is courted, the male and female thrush work together to form a "family" ready for the arrival of a new life. Together, they are involved in the process of building nests, incubating eggs, and raising chicks.
• Once the male and female have established a relationship, they will work together to form a small family unit, and this relationship usually lasts throughout the breeding season. Together, the small families will face the challenges of nesting and raising their offspring, forming a special partnership that is admirable for the astonishing care and wisdom they have shown in choosing a nesting site to ensure the best possible environment for their offspring. They usually choose sites located in bushes or low woods as nesting sites. Prefer to choose places that provide adequate shelter, such as dense foliage or shrubs, to shelter from predators and bad weather. Ideal nesting sites are often on higher ground, which helps keep the nest dry and reduces the threat of ground predators.
A thrush looking for something to make a nest in
• Other factors of the environment, such as the abundance of food sources and the availability of water sources, are also taken into account when building the nest. A good nesting site should be close to an abundance of insects and plant fruits, which are important food sources for thrushes and their young, and will also show great intelligence when choosing the exact location for nesting. They usually choose a leeward place to protect their nest from direct blows from strong winds. In addition, the nest is usually oriented towards the sun, which helps to keep the nest warm and provides a comfortable environment for the young to grow. Through this complex and ingenious selection process, thrushes ensure that their nests are both safe and comfortable, thus creating the best conditions for the growth of their offspring. The thrush's nest is not only a place for its breeding, but also a manifestation of its engineering skills and precise understanding of the natural environment.
• When building a nest, a variety of natural materials are carefully selected. They mainly use dried grass leaves, dead grass roots, and tiny branches. These materials are both lightweight and tough, allowing them to build strong and long-lasting nests. In fact, the nest of thrushes is usually cup-shaped or slightly flattened saucer-shaped, with a diameter of about 13 to 20 cm, a nest depth of about 7.5 to 8.5 cm, and a nest height of about 10 to 11 cm. This size and shape provides plenty of space for the chicks while also ensuring a certain level of warmth and safety. The thrush's nest is also designed with protection and concealment in mind. Their nests are cup-shaped or oval-shaped, with loose and rough outer walls, while inner walls are finely smooth woven from tiny grass stems. This structure protects the eggs and young birds from moisture ingress. And nests are usually built in hidden places, such as under the shelter of bushes or branches. This concealment is to protect the nest from predators such as birds of prey and other predators. At the same time, the location of the nest is usually chosen at a certain height above the ground, which increases safety and also makes it easier for the parent bird to observe its surroundings in case of accidents.
• They have a unique characteristic of their breeding Xi, which is their loyalty to the breeding ground. This trait is essential for the thrush to survive and reproduce. Thrushes with breeding experience often choose to breed repeatedly in the same location. This behavior can be attributed to familiarity with a particular location, as well as the superiority that the location has shown in previous breeding successes. By reusing the same site, thrushes can save time and energy in finding new breeding sites. Thrushes consider a variety of factors, such as the safety of the location, the abundance of food sources, and the stability of the environment. The act of repeated reproduction in the same location also favors the survival of the offspring. Familiar locations provide a more stable environment for childcare, which in turn improves the survival rate of young birds. Once they have determined that a site meets these criteria, they may breed there for several seasons in a row. Although thrushes show a high degree of loyalty to their breeding colonies, they are also able to adapt to changes in their environment. If the original breeding grounds are no longer suitable, the thrush will look for a new location. This adaptability ensures their ability to survive in an ever-changing environment.
• The appearance of the thrush eggs is truly incredible. They are generally light blue or sky blue with brown spots on them. These spots are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also contribute to camouflage in the natural environment. The sheen on the egg shell is as stunning as nature's most delicate work of art. The process of producing eggs is also interesting. Thrushes typically lay 3 to 5 eggs per nest, one per day. These eggs are mostly oval in shape and are also modest in size and weight. The size and shape of these eggs are actually the result of months of natural selection to ensure the highest hatching success rate.
There are two thrush eggs in one nest
• Hatching, for the thrush, is a work of love and patience. Thrushes usually maintain an incubation temperature between 36.7 and 38 degrees, which is a very precise temperature range that ensures that the eggs can hatch in optimal conditions. Think about it, the parent bird needs to maintain this temperature range, neither too hot nor too cold, and it takes a lot of precision and effort to maintain, but the incubation period is generally 15 to 16 days, during which the female incubates her eggs with care and barely leaves the nest. This is a test of it, as it needs to be constantly kept at a constant temperature, while also being alert to any possible dangers.
• During the hatching period, if the thrush female fruit approaches any threat, it will choose to flee at the last minute before the other person approaches the nest. This behavior is an instinctive protection mechanism designed to protect future generations. But once the danger is gone, the thrush female quickly returns to the nest to continue her hatching mission. Every detail in this process is the result of nature's careful design. From the maintenance of the temperature to the protection of the thrush female, every step is full of vitality and the wisdom of nature. It is not only the process of incubating eggs, but also the embodiment of the miracle of life.
• Thrush chicks are born with their eyes closed and covered with sparse down feathers, which is the stage on which they are most dependent in their growth. During this period, the chicks are completely dependent on the careful care of the male and female parent birds. The parent birds take turns feeding these little creatures that have just broken out of their shells. Every feeding counts. Although the chicks are weak, they have amazing vitality. Even at such a young age, they show a desire to survive. Although chicks are fed on their first day of life, it takes a few days for their eyes to slowly open and adjust to this new world. In this process, the role of kissing two birds is very crucial. Not only do they provide food, but they also provide warmth and protection, ensuring that the chicks are fully cared for during this vulnerable time. At this time, the chicks begin to grow tiny needle-like feathers on their bodies, which is the first obvious sign of their growth.
The thrush is looking for bugs to feed the chicks
• As the chicks grow older, so does their appetite. At this stage, the chicks begin to compete with other siblings for food in the nest. This kind of competition, although fierce, is the only way for them to grow, and it is also a cruel and wonderful part of nature. However, with the passage of time, the growth of thrush chicks has entered a new stage. Their feathers begin to change from fluffy to more mature feathers. Around 26 days after hatching, the chicks begin to leave the nest, which is an important milestone in their development. At this point, they begin to grow significantly in size, and the downy on their bodies is gradually replaced by stronger feathers.
• Chicks of this period, although they have begun to approach adults in appearance, are still very fragile in many ways. The foraging ability is not strong enough, therefore, they still rely on the feeding and protection of the parent birds. At this stage, the parent bird can be observed leading the young through the bushes in search of food, and the appearance of the adult begins to emerge as the chicks' needle feathers gradually grow feathers. After about 7 to 9 weeks, the chicks have fully grown their feathers and are ready to fly and forage freely. Despite this, their bodies are not yet fully mature, and they still need to go through a stage of "feathering". This "feathering" phase usually takes place within two months before and after the Mid-Autumn Festival. During this time, the chicks' feathers undergo a complete renewal and are ready to meet the challenges of adult life. Once this process is complete, these young thrushes are truly mature and ready to mate and reproduce.
• At the end of this stage, the thrush's chicks are considered fully mature and have all the necessary conditions to live independently. They have the ability to mate and reproduce, becoming independent individuals. During this period, if the original chick is lost due to predators or human factors, the parent bird may lay a second egg to try to reproduce again.
• A detailed and detailed analysis of whether it is illegal to raise thrushes
The thrush is not just a nice bird, it is inextricably linked to our laws. First of all, we have to understand one thing, is it legal to keep thrushes? It depends. For example, if you catch a wild thrush on the street and go home, that's not going to work. Why? Because of the thrush, it is a national second-class protected animal. The country cherishes them so much, so we have to respect them as well. If you really like thrushes and want to raise one, then we must first know that you can't just catch wild thrushes without permission. The Criminal Law of the People's Republic of China clearly stipulates that it is a crime to illegally hunt, kill, or illegally trade these precious and endangered wild animals.
A caged thrush
• When it comes to catching and raising wild thrushes privately, this is no small feat. Some people may think, "I'll just keep one secretly, and no one knows." "But this kind of thinking is actually very risky because it is against the laws of the country. According to the Criminal Law of the People's Republic of China, this is not just a violation of the law, but a crime. When you catch a wild thrush, you're not just impacting the life of the bird, you're impacting the entire ecosystem. Every animal has its role and place in nature, and losing them can upset the balance of nature. And to do so is also disrespectful to the law. The law exists to protect each of us, including the environment and animals around us. When we violate these laws, we are not only harming animals, we are also being irresponsible to society. While raising a thrush sounds poetic, it's really not worth it if it's illegal. If we really like these little ones, we can get close to them in other legal ways, such as going to a bird sanctuary.
• If you decide to keep a thrush, there are some legal rules to be aware of. After all, only when you do things and follow the rules can you be sure. The first step is to get the thrush through legal means. But this is not enough, it is also necessary to ensure that other relevant laws and regulations are not violated during the farming process. In the process of breeding thrushes, thrushes cannot be released or transferred or sold casually. Again, if you want to breed thrushes, you need to apply for some necessary legal documents in the relevant departments. These documents are like a pass to prove that you are qualified and capable of raising these birds. With these certificates, there is a guarantee in the breeding process and it is also in line with the law.