- general description
- appearance
- the bar-winged flycatcher-shrike is a small bird with a slender build and a distinctive plumage.
- it has a grayish-black head and upperparts, with a prominent white bar on the wings, which gives the species its name.
- the underparts are white, and the tail is dark with a contrasting white edge.
- both sexes have similar plumage, although females may appear slightly duller.
- size
- measures about 12-14 cm in length.
- typically weighs around 10-15 grams.
- behavior
- known for its active foraging behavior, often seen flitting about in the mid-canopy or along forest edges.
- it is a social species, frequently found in pairs or small groups, and often joins mixed-species foraging flocks.
- the bar-winged flycatcher-shrike has a distinctive high-pitched, sharp call, which is often heard in its habitat.
- habitat
- range
- found in parts of southeast asia, including the malay peninsula, sumatra, borneo, and java.
- environment
- inhabits a variety of forested environments, including lowland and montane forests, forest edges, and secondary growth.
- prefers areas with dense tree cover but can also be found in gardens and plantations.
- diet
- primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of insects, spiders, and other small arthropods.
- forages actively by sallying from perches to catch prey in flight or gleaning from leaves and branches.
- breeding
- nesting
- builds a small, cup-shaped nest made of plant fibers, bark, and spider webs, usually placed high in a tree or on a horizontal branch.
- nests are well-camouflaged and often placed in dense foliage to protect against predators.
- reproduction
- breeding season varies across its range but generally coincides with periods of abundant food.
- female lays 2-3 eggs, which are incubated for about 14-16 days.
- both parents participate in feeding the chicks until they fledge, which takes about 12-15 days.
- conservation status
- currently not considered endangered or vulnerable.
- listed as least concern by the IUCN due to its wide range and stable population.
- interesting facts
- the bar-winged flycatcher-shrike’s distinctive wing bars and active foraging behavior make it a noticeable bird in its native habitat.
- it is known to join mixed-species flocks, which helps reduce the risk of predation and increases foraging efficiency.
- despite its small size, the bar-winged flycatcher-shrike is a bold and inquisitive bird, often exploring new areas within its habitat.