Himalayan Bluetail
NameHimalayan Bluetail
Common NameHimalayan Bluetail
Scientific NameTarsiger rufilatus
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)19.5
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)14
Plumage DetailsAdult males are brilliant cobalt blue on the head, back, wings, and tail, with a white throat and belly, and prominent orange-rufous flanks. Females are duller, olive-brown above with a pale throat and buffy underparts, often with a bluish tinge on the tail.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a soft, high-pitched 'tseep' or 'tsit'. The song is a thin, warbling series of notes, often delivered from dense cover.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in the Himalayas from northern Pakistan east through Nepal, Bhutan, and northeastern India, extending into parts of southern China and northern Myanmar. Winters at lower elevations and further south in Southeast Asia.
Identifying FeaturesBrilliant blue upperparts in males, White throat and belly, Distinctive orange-rufous flanks (males), Small size, Often found in dense undergrowth
Description
The Himalayan Bluetail is a small, vibrant passerine bird, with males displaying brilliant blue plumage. It is typically shy, preferring to forage for insects in the dense undergrowth of high-altitude forests.
