Green Shrike-babbler

Overview

The green shrike-babbler, Pteruthius xanthochlorus, is a small bird species classified within the family Vireonidae as an Asian offshoot of the American vireos. Previously categorised under the family Timaliidae, it is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Length of approximately 13 centimetres.
• Males feature a grey head with an olive-green back, pale ashy grey throat and breast, a yellow belly, and a blackish crown.
• Females appear slightly duller than males, characterised by a greyish crown.

Habitat

This species inhabits subtropical or tropical moist montane forests, primarily in deciduous and coniferous environments. It is found across Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, and Vietnam, typically at altitudes between 2100 and 3000 metres, though it may descend to lower elevations during winter.

Diet

The diet comprises insects such as ants and beetles, alongside berries and seeds.

Did you know?

During the breeding season, which mainly occurs in May and June, nests are constructed at heights ranging from three to eight metres above the ground.