Jerdon's Bushchat
NameJerdon's Bushchat
Common NameJerdon's Bushchat
Scientific NameSaxicola jerdoni
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)19
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)12
Plumage DetailsMales have a glossy black head, upperparts, and wings, with a prominent white collar and pure white underparts. Females are duller, brownish-grey above with paler, whitish underparts and often a faint supercilium.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a sharp 'tack' or 'chack'. The song is a simple, repetitive phrase.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in parts of the Indian subcontinent (northern and eastern India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan) and Southeast Asia (Myanmar, northern Thailand, Laos, Vietnam).
Identifying FeaturesMale's glossy black head and upperparts, Prominent white collar, Pure white underparts, Small size, Upright posture on perches
Description
This small passerine is characterized by its striking black and white plumage in males, often perching conspicuously on reeds or low vegetation. It is an insectivorous bird found in grasslands and open scrub habitats.
