Rufous-vented Niltava
NameRufous-vented Niltava
Common NameRufous-vented Niltava
Scientific NameNiltava sundara
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)22
Length (cm)16.5
Weight (g)21.5
Plumage DetailsMales have deep cobalt blue on the crown, nape, upperparts, wings, and tail, with a black face and chin. The throat, breast, and belly are a vibrant rufous-orange, complemented by bright blue patches on the sides of the neck. Females are generally olive-brown with a rufous tail and paler underparts.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a series of clear, melodious whistles, often described as 'twee-twee-twee-twee' or 'swee-swee-swee-swee-swee', as well as a soft 'churr' or 'trrr' call.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across the Himalayas, from northern India, Nepal, and Bhutan, extending eastward through Southeast Asia including Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and southern China.
Identifying FeaturesVibrant blue upperparts and rufous-orange underparts (male), Black face mask, Bright blue shoulder patch, Medium-sized flycatcher, Prefers dense montane forest undergrowth
Description
The Rufous-vented Niltava is a strikingly colorful Old World flycatcher, with males displaying brilliant blue and rufous-orange plumage. It is typically found foraging for insects in the undergrowth of montane forests.
