| IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature): | Least Concern
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| Approximate size(adult): | Length about 20–23 cm; weight around 55–65 g. The male is striking with black upperparts, white underparts, and bold white wing patches, while the female is brownish with scaled underparts and less contrasting plumage.
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| Resident/ Migrate from: | A migratory species that breeds in the Himalayas and northeastern India, extending to parts of Bhutan and Myanmar.
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| Migrate to: | Winters in southern India and Sri Lanka, especially in forested hill regions like the Western Ghats.
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| Breeding season: | April to July in the Himalayan range. Males sing melodious fluty notes from perches to attract females.
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| Breed in: | Nests in dense forest undergrowth, often on banks or low shrubs. The cup-shaped nest is made of moss, roots, and leaves. Lays 2–4 bluish eggs. Both parents share incubation and feeding duties.
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| Habitat: | During breeding, inhabits temperate broadleaf and mixed forests at elevations between 1500–3000 m. In winter, it is found in evergreen and moist deciduous forests, often near streams and shaded areas.
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| Diet: | Feeds mainly on insects, earthworms, and small invertebrates, foraged from the forest floor. Also consumes berries and fruits, especially in winter.
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