Sumatran Shortwing
NameSumatran Shortwing
Common NameSumatran Shortwing
Scientific NameBrachypteryx hyperythra
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)19
Length (cm)13.5
Weight (g)17
Plumage DetailsMales are entirely dark blue-black with a conspicuous white supercilium (eyebrow stripe). Females are duller, brownish, with a rufous throat and breast.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations typically consist of a thin, high-pitched whistle, often delivered as a series of repeated notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeEndemic to the montane forests of the Barisan Mountains on Sumatra, Indonesia.
Identifying FeaturesDark blue-black plumage (male), Prominent white supercilium, Short tail, Long legs, Ground-dwelling behavior, Found in montane forests of Sumatra
Description
This small, dark, ground-dwelling bird is characterized by its secretive nature and preference for dense montane forest undergrowth. It forages primarily on the forest floor, often flicking its short tail as it moves. The male, as pictured, is strikingly dark with a prominent white eyebrow.
