Scaly-breasted Cupwing
NameScaly-breasted Cupwing
Common NameScaly-breasted Cupwing
Scientific NamePnoepyga albiventer
FamilyPnoepygidae
Wingspan (cm)14.5
Length (cm)9.5
Weight (g)12.5
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are dark brown, often with fine pale spotting on the crown and nape. The underparts, particularly the breast and flanks, are heavily scaled or spotted with dark brown and white or buff, creating a prominent scaly pattern. It has a very short tail and a relatively long, slender bill.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include high-pitched, thin, insect-like trills and whistles, often delivered from dense cover.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Himalayas and parts of Southeast Asia, including Nepal, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, China, Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand, typically in montane and submontane forests.
Identifying Featuresvery small size, plump body with extremely short tail, distinctive scaly pattern on breast and flanks, dark brown upperparts with fine spotting on head
Description
The Scaly-breasted Cupwing is a tiny, plump, and short-tailed bird known for its distinctive scaly plumage. It typically forages in dense undergrowth, often near the forest floor, where its cryptic coloration provides excellent camouflage.
