Avipedia
Large Niltava

Large Niltava

NameLarge Niltava
Common NameLarge Niltava
Scientific NameNiltava grandis
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)20
Weight (g)37.5
Plumage DetailsMales are predominantly deep indigo-blue, with a brighter cobalt-blue crown, nape, and shoulder patch. The lores, chin, and throat are black. Females are olive-brown with a rufous tail and a greyish-brown head.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of clear, fluty whistles, often described as 'twee-twee-twee-twee-twee', and also harsh churring notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across the Himalayas (from Nepal eastward), Northeast India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, southern China, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Peninsular Malaysia, and Sumatra.
Identifying FeaturesStriking deep blue plumage (male), Brighter cobalt-blue crown and shoulder patch (male), Black face and throat (male), Medium-sized flycatcher, Prefers dense forest undergrowth

Description

The Large Niltava is a striking medium-sized flycatcher, with males displaying brilliant deep blue plumage. It is typically found in the dense undergrowth of montane forests, where it forages for insects.

Related Bird species