The Andaman shama is a species of bird in the family Muscicapidae. It is endemic to the Andaman Islands. It was previously considered a subspecies of the white-rumped shama. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry forests and subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
Region
Andaman Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs throughout suitable forest on the Andaman Islands, favoring dense understory in evergreen and semi-evergreen forest. It also uses secondary growth, thickets, forest edges, and scrub near streams. Birds typically remain close to the ground, moving through tangled vegetation and bamboo. It may venture into plantations and lightly disturbed habitats where cover is abundant.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 700 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Andaman shama is a close island relative of the white-rumped shama and is renowned for its rich, melodious song. It keeps to dense undergrowth and is more often heard than seen. Males perform conspicuous song displays from shaded perches, especially at dawn. Habitat protection on the Andaman Islands is important for the species’ long-term security.
Temperament
shy and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and darting through understory
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, maintaining territories in dense cover. Nests are placed in cavities or crevices such as tree holes or among roots and dense tangles. Both parents typically attend the young, with the male singing prominently near the nest area.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rich, fluting series of clear whistles and varied phrases, delivered with impressive volume for its size. Males often incorporate mimicry of other forest birds and sing most intensely at dawn and early morning.
