The Chestnut-eared Laughingthrush is one of the most elusive and legendary birds of Vietnam. Found only in a very small part of the Central Highlands, this species was named after Kon Ka Kinh Mountain, where it was first discovered. Known for its rich, earth-toned plumage and its unmistakable chestnut ear patches, it is a high-priority target for any serious birdwatcher.
Status: Endemic
IUCN: Endangered
Diet: Omnivore
Group: bird
Size: 28 cm
Lifespan: years
Sighting: Very Elusive
Size & Build: It is a medium-sized bird, standing about 24 to 28 cm tall and weighing between 86 and 108 grams. It has a sturdy build with a long, dark tail.
Key Marks: The most striking feature is the rich chestnut-colored patch on its ear area (ear-coverts) and around its eyes. This contrasts beautifully with its soft greyish-brown body.
Unique Status: This is a strictly endemic species, meaning it lives nowhere else on Earth except for the mountain forests of Vietnam.
Distinctive Beak: It possesses a slender, slightly curved dark beak and notable orange-yellow legs that stand out in the forest shadows.
Plumage Details: Its upper body is a warm olive-brown, while its head features a brownish-grey crown with subtle black streaks. Its belly is a pale buff-orange (rufous), which brightens its appearance when it moves.
Male vs. Female: Adults show no major differences in their looks—males and females look virtually identical.
Juveniles: Young birds look a bit more modest. Their plumage is duller, and those famous chestnut ear patches are not as bright until they grow into adulthood.
Yearly Refresh: Like other laughingthrushes, they go through a full feather refresh (molt) each year to keep their colors sharp and their wings strong.
This bird is a very loyal and restricted resident of the highlands:
Geographic Range: It is found exclusively in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. Its primary stronghold is Kon Ka Kinh National Park.
Elevation: They prefer high altitudes, typically living in the cool mountain air between 900 m and 2,500 m above sea level.
Habitat Specifics: Their favorite homes are the thick undergrowth of primary evergreen forests and areas with plenty of bamboo.
A Rare Treasure: Because they only live in such a small, restricted area, they are very sensitive to habitat loss. Their presence is a sign of a very healthy and well-protected forest ecosystem.
The Chestnut-eared Laughingthrush is resting on the tree branch.
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The Chestnut-eared Laughingthrush is full of social energy and musical talent:
Social Life: These are highly social and gregarious birds. They are almost always found in small flocks, moving playfully and noisily through the low layers of the forest.
The "Laughter" Song: They are famous for their cheerful, melodic calls that sound a bit like human laughter. They are also talented mimics, often imitating the songs of other forest birds.
Mixed Diet: They are omnivores. They spend their time searching the forest floor for insects, spiders, and worms, but they also enjoy forest berries and seeds.
Breeding Secrets: They form loyal, monogamous pairs that build cup-shaped nests made of twigs and moss, hidden deep in dense shrubs to keep their 2 to 3 eggs safe.
Conservation Status: They are currently listed as Endangered or Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
![[Species_Profile] - A-Chestnut-eared-Laughingthrush-perched-on-a-mossy-forest-branch-in-Vietnam. Responsible Birding in Vietnam](https://wanee.asia/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Chestnut-eared-Laughingthrush.jpg)
![Itinerary – The Chestnut-eared Laughingthrush, restricted to a tiny range in Kon Tum Province in [14-Day] Birdwatching Tour – South & Central Highlands Vietnam.](https://wanee.asia/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Chestnut-eared-Laughingthrush-1067x800.jpg)
