- general description
- appearance
- the pied bush chat is a small, compact bird with striking sexual dimorphism.
- males are predominantly black with a distinctive white patch on the lower belly and white wing patches.
- females are brown with a paler underbelly and faint streaking, providing camouflage in their natural habitat.
- both sexes have short, rounded wings and a relatively long tail, which they often flick up and down.
- size
- measures about 13-14 cm in length.
- typically weighs around 13-20 grams.
- behavior
- known for its active and alert nature, often seen perched on low shrubs, fences, or rocks, watching for insects.
- it frequently engages in characteristic tail flicking and wing stretching behaviors.
- has a melodious and varied song, used to communicate and establish territory, especially during the breeding season.
- habitat
- range
- widely distributed across south asia and southeast asia, including india, sri lanka, bangladesh, pakistan, nepal, bhutan, myanmar, thailand, and indonesia.
- environment
- inhabits a variety of environments including grasslands, scrublands, open woodlands, agricultural fields, and gardens.
- prefers areas with open spaces and sparse vegetation where it can easily spot and catch insects.
- diet
- primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of insects such as beetles, grasshoppers, ants, and caterpillars.
- occasionally consumes small berries and seeds.
- breeding
- nesting
- builds a small, cup-shaped nest made of grass, twigs, and plant fibers, often placed in a bush, grass tuft, or low tree.
- nests are usually well-concealed and lined with softer materials for insulation.
- reproduction
- breeding season varies across its range but generally occurs during the spring and summer months.
- female lays 3-5 eggs, which are incubated for about 12-14 days.
- both parents participate in feeding the chicks until they fledge, which takes about 14-18 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 pied bush chat is known for its adaptability and can thrive in both rural and urban environments.
- it is often seen perched conspicuously, making it easier to spot than many other small birds.
- the species’ melodious song and distinctive black-and-white plumage make it a favorite among birdwatchers.