Taiwan Barbet

Overview

The Taiwan barbet (Psilopogon nuchalis), also known as the embroidered barbet, is a bird species endemic to Taiwan. It was formerly considered a subspecies of the black-browed barbet and placed in the genus Megalaima.

Identification

• About 20 cm long with mostly green plumage, a mustard yellow throat, and a yellow forehead.
• Features a red spot on the lore, blue ear-coverts, and a blue band and red band on the breast.
• A black stripe runs above the eye, and the bill is black and thick.
• The call resembles the sound of a wooden fish percussion instrument.

Habitat

This species is found in forests at elevations up to 2,800 m. It nests in tree cavities, which it may either occupy if they already exist or excavate itself. The breeding season runs from March to August.

Diet

The bird feeds on fruits and insects.

Did you know?

Known locally as the 'colorful monk', the name derives from its vibrant plumage and the fact that its call sounds like a wooden fish, an instrument traditionally used by monks.