Sapphire Flycatcher
NameSapphire Flycatcher
Common NameSapphire Flycatcher
Scientific NameFicedula sapphira
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)16
Length (cm)12.5
Weight (g)10
Plumage DetailsMale has brilliant sapphire-blue crown, nape, back, wings, and tail. The throat and breast are bright rufous-orange, contrasting sharply with a white belly and vent. Females are dull olive-brown above with paler, often buffy, underparts.
Vocalization / CallA series of high-pitched, thin whistles or trills, often described as 'tsee-tsee-tsee' or 'swee-swee-swee-swee'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Himalayas from northern India to Bhutan, extending into parts of Southeast Asia including Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and southern China. Some populations are migratory.
Identifying FeaturesVibrant sapphire-blue upperparts (male), Rufous-orange throat and breast patch (male), Small size, Upright posture typical of flycatchers
Description
A small, brightly colored Old World flycatcher, the male is striking with brilliant sapphire-blue upperparts and a rufous-orange throat. Females are duller, typically olive-brown. They are active insectivores, often found in the understory of montane forests.
