Incredibly Rare Robin Spotted In China

A remarkably elusive species of robin has been spotted in China after being seen only a handful of times before, offering researchers new insight into how to protect the vulnerable birds. The blackthroated blue robin, also known simply as the blackthroat, was first discovered in 1886, but only 58 adult birds have been found since then. According to the BBC, recently released research in the Journal of Ornithology could provide more information about the birds, as well as some good news for the species:

For the first time, the experts, led by Fumin Lei from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Prof Alström, who is currently studying in China, confirmed what a female blackthroat looks like... The discovery of a breeding pair also confirmed that both parents care for their young, feeding their chicks flies, butterflies and other insects and arthropods.

Blackthroats may be more common than previously thought, as the latest study discovered more individuals than had ever been recorded previously.... Its habitat may also be less threatened than feared.

Scientists say that the recent discovery shouldn't diminish the fact that the birds are still incredibly evasive; according to the new report, researchers wouldn't have discovered the birds if it hadn't been for their "beautiful and varied" singing.