Least Concern

Medium-sized babbler, about 22–24 cm in length. Entirely rufous-brown plumage with a slightly paler throat and breast; long tail and strong legs adapted for terrestrial foraging. Sexes look alike.

Resident species, non-migratory. Found year-round within its restricted range in southern India.

Does not migrate; largely sedentary within its habitat range.

Breeds mainly during the southwest monsoon, from April to September. Builds cup-shaped nests in shrubs or small trees.

Occurs in the hills and lower slopes of the Western Ghats of southern India, including parts of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.

Prefers moist deciduous and evergreen forests, forest edges, and shrubby hillsides up to 1,500 m elevation. Often seen in noisy flocks moving through undergrowth.

Feeds mainly on insects, spiders, and small invertebrates; occasionally eats berries and seeds. Forages mostly on or near the ground in groups.