Blue-winged Minla
NameBlue-winged Minla
Common NameBlue-winged Minla
Scientific NameActinodura cyanouroptera
FamilyLeiothrichidae
Wingspan (cm)22
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)13
Plumage DetailsThis species features a grey crown with fine streaking, a prominent white supercilium bordered by black lines, and rufous-brown back and flanks. Its underparts are pale greyish-white, contrasting with vibrant blue wings that have black and white barring on the flight feathers. The tail is also blue with a black subterminal band and white tips.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include high-pitched, thin 'tsee-tsee-tsee' or 'twee-twee-twee' calls, often given in a chattering series. It also produces a varied, somewhat jumbled song.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Blue-winged Minla is widely distributed across the Himalayas and Southeast Asia, including parts of Nepal, Bhutan, Northeast India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, and southern China.
Identifying FeaturesBlue wings with black and white barring, Blue tail with white tips, Grey head with white supercilium, Rufous-brown back and flanks, Small size and active foraging behavior
Description
The Blue-winged Minla is a small, active babbler known for its striking blue wings and tail. It typically forages in mixed-species flocks within the undergrowth and mid-story of montane forests, often moving quickly through dense vegetation.
