Oriental Magpie-Robin look-alikes
Copsychus saularis
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Oriental Magpie-Robin. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Indian Robin
Saxicoloides fulicatus
Key differences
The Indian Robin is smaller, has a rufous vent and undertail coverts, and lacks the prominent white shoulder patch of the Oriental Magpie-Robin. Its song is also different, being less varied and more repetitive.
Pied Bushchat
Saxicola caprata
Key differences
The Pied Bushchat is smaller and more compact, with a shorter tail. Males are entirely black with a white rump and wing patch, lacking the white belly and extensive white on the tail of the Magpie-Robin. Females are dull brown.
White-rumped Shama
Copsychus malabaricus
Key differences
The White-rumped Shama is larger with a much longer tail, and males have a chestnut belly and rump, contrasting with the Magpie-Robin's white belly. The Shama's song is also more complex and varied.
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