Indian Robin

Overview

The Indian robin (Copsychus fulicatus) is a passerine bird found across the Indian subcontinent, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. It is a resident species that thrives in open, dry habitats close to human habitation and is currently classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Males are predominantly black with a white shoulder patch, while females are brownish above and greyish below.
• A distinctive chestnut patch on the undertail coverts is visible as the bird typically holds its long tail upright.
• Distinguishable from similar species like the pied bushchat by the combination of dark body plumage and chestnut undertail markings.
• Juveniles resemble females but feature a mottled throat.

Habitat

This species prefers open stony, grassy, and scrub forest areas, often avoiding thick forests and high-rainfall regions. It is frequently found near human settlements and is known to perch on rooftops. The bird is non-migratory and all populations are resident.

Diet

Primarily insectivorous, but the bird also preys on small frogs and lizards, particularly when provisioning nestlings. Foraging behaviour includes running along the ground and capturing insects attracted to artificial lights in the evening.

Did you know?

Males are highly territorial and may attack their own reflections, displaying aggression by fluffing their feathers and holding their bill high. They also perform elaborate courtship displays involving tail-spreading and strutting to showcase their chestnut undertail coverts.