Small Niltava
NameSmall Niltava
Common NameSmall Niltava
Scientific NameNiltava macgrigoriae
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)18
Length (cm)13
Weight (g)10
Plumage DetailsAdult males are deep indigo-blue on the upperparts, head, and throat, with a brilliant electric-blue crown patch and shoulder stripes. The belly is dull greyish-white. Females are duller, mostly olive-brown with a pale throat and a faint blue patch on the neck sides.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a soft, high-pitched 'tsee-tsee' or 'tsip', often given while foraging. The song is a short, sweet, and melodious phrase, typically consisting of clear, whistled notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Himalayas, from northern India east through Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh, to Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and southern China.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Male's brilliant blue crown and upperparts, Male's black face and throat, Pale greyish-white belly, Often found in dense undergrowth
Description
The Small Niltava is a vibrant, small passerine bird known for the male's striking blue plumage. It is an active insectivore, often found foraging in the undergrowth of montane forests.
