Gould's Shortwing
NameGould's Shortwing
Common NameGould's Shortwing
Scientific NameBrachypteryx stellata
FamilyBrachypterygidae
Wingspan (cm)18
Length (cm)13
Weight (g)19
Plumage DetailsAdults have a striking rufous-chestnut crown and nape, contrasting with dark greyish upperparts, wings, and tail. The face is dark grey. The underparts are dark grey to blackish, heavily adorned with prominent white triangular or tear-drop shaped spots, giving a 'starry' appearance.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations typically consist of high-pitched, thin, often repeated whistles or a series of ascending, clear notes, sometimes described as 'tsee-tsee-tsee' or 'swee-swee-swee'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Himalayas, ranging from Nepal eastward through Bhutan, Northeast India, northern Myanmar, and into parts of southern China (Yunnan) and northern Vietnam.
Identifying FeaturesRufous-chestnut crown, Dark grey upperparts and face, Dark underparts with prominent white spots, Short tail, Ground-dwelling behavior, Small, plump body
Description
Gould's Shortwing is a small, plump, and shy ground-dwelling bird found in dense montane forests. It is characterized by its distinctive rufous crown and heavily spotted dark underparts, often foraging in leaf litter.
