Vietnamese Cutia
NameVietnamese Cutia
Common NameVietnamese Cutia
Scientific NameCutia legalleni
FamilyLeiothrichidae
Wingspan (cm)19
Length (cm)18
Weight (g)30
Plumage DetailsMales have a black crown and nape, a white supercilium, and a black eye-stripe. The throat and breast are white, transitioning to heavily barred black and white on the flanks and belly. The back and rump are a rich rufous-chestnut, contrasting with black wings that feature a prominent white bar. Females are similar but generally duller.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of whistling and chattering notes. Common calls are described as a clear "pee-wit" or a rapid, repeated "twee-twee-twee," sometimes interspersed with short "chup" notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Annamite Mountains, spanning central and southern Vietnam and adjacent parts of Laos.
Identifying FeaturesBold black, white, and rufous plumage pattern, Distinctive black and white barring on underparts, Black cap and rufous back, Short, stout, slightly hooked bill, Arboreal foraging style, often clinging to tree trunks
Description
This striking, medium-sized babbler-like bird is characterized by its bold black, white, and rufous plumage. It typically forages on tree trunks and large branches in montane forests, often in mixed-species flocks, searching for insects hidden under bark.
