Nilgiri Blue Robin

Overview

The Nilgiri blue robin (Sholicola major), also known as the rufous-bellied shortwing, is a passerine bird in the family Muscicapidae endemic to the shola forests of the Western Ghats in southern India. This small, chunky species is currently classified as Near Threatened due to its restricted habitat.

Identification

• Plumage: Dark slaty blue upperside, throat, and breast, contrasting with a rufous lower plumage and a buffy-white centre on the belly; features black lores and a diffuse bluish brow that is less distinct than in related species.
• Structure: Long-legged and appears chunky with a short tail and wings.
• Vocalisation: Produces tit-like notes and harsh rattles, with a song consisting of a series of shrill whistles and twangy buzzing sounds that vary among geographically isolated populations.

Habitat

This species inhabits dense forest patches located in the valleys of high-altitude montane grasslands known as sholas, occurring only above 1,200 m in the higher hills of southern India. Its range is restricted to the Nilgiris, the Bababudan hills, and the Brahmagiris, mainly north of the Palghat Gap.

Did you know?

Old nests from the previous year may sometimes be reused by the birds, which construct their nests from moss and fibrous roots in tree holes or on banks low to the ground.