Plumbeous Water Redstart
NamePlumbeous Water Redstart
Common NamePlumbeous Water Redstart
Scientific NameRhyacornis fuliginosa
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)23
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)20
Plumage DetailsMales are entirely dark blue-grey, appearing almost black in some light, with a bright rufous-chestnut tail. Females are dark grey with a prominent white patch on the rump and a rufous-chestnut tail.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a thin, high-pitched whistling 'tsee-tsee' or 'swee-swee' song, often repeated. They also emit a sharp 'chick' alarm call.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across the Himalayas, parts of China, and Southeast Asia, including Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia. They breed at high altitudes and move to lower elevations during winter.
Identifying FeaturesMale's uniform dark blue-grey body with bright rufous tail, Female's dark grey body with white rump and rufous tail, Constant tail bobbing behavior, Strong association with fast-flowing mountain streams and rivers
Description
This small, active bird is typically found near fast-flowing mountain streams and rivers. Males are striking with their dark blue-grey plumage and contrasting rufous tail, while females are dark grey with a distinctive white rump patch. They constantly bob their tails while foraging for insects along rocky banks.
