Geomalia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Geomalia |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Zoothera
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| Species: |
heinrichi
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| Synonyms | |
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Geomalia heinrichi |
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The geomalia or Sulawesi mountain thrush (Zoothera heinrichi) is a rare bird. It belongs to the thrush family. This bird is only found on the island of Sulawesi in Indonesia. Sometimes, it is called Geomalia heinrichi. In that case, it is the only species in its group, called a monotypic genus. This is where its main common name, Geomalia, comes from.
About the Geomalia
What Does It Look Like?
The geomalia is mostly dark brown. It has a chestnut color on its chest. It has long legs, a long tail, and short wings. When the bird was first discovered, its looks reminded the discoverer of laughingthrushes.
The name Geomalia comes from another bird found on Sulawesi, the malia. The geomalia looks a bit like the malia, but they are not related. The bird's specific name, heinrichi, honors the German explorer Gerd Heinrich. He was the one who discovered this unique bird.
Where Does It Belong?
Scientists have discussed where the geomalia fits in the bird family tree. It has some features like other thrushes. For example, it stands upright, and young geomalias have spotted chests. Also, it looks for food on the ground, just like many thrushes.
However, some of its features are different. It has a long, rounded tail and short wings. It also doesn't seem to sing. These differences made some people wonder if it truly belonged in the thrush family. But, a genetic study in 2013 confirmed it is indeed a thrush. It's an unusual member of the Zoothera group of thrushes.
Protecting the Geomalia
The geomalia lives in isolated areas. It is hard to reach its habitat. Because of this, scientists have not studied the geomalia very much.
This bird might be in danger. Uncontrolled logging and other activities are harming the highlands of Sulawesi. This includes areas that are supposed to be protected, like Lore Lindu National Park. The geomalia is listed as "Near Threatened" on the IUCN Red List. This means it could become endangered in the future if we don't protect its home.
