The ashy minivet is a passerine bird of eastern Asia belonging to the minivet genus Pericrocotus in the cuckooshrike family Campephagidae. While most of the minivets have shades of yellow, orange and red in their plumage, this species has only greys, whites and blacks. The male is distinctive with a white face and black nape although females can be confused with the female of the brown-rumped minivet. They forage in the canopy, often along with other minivets and join mixed-species foraging flocks.
Region
East and Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Breeds in northeastern Asia, including Japan, the Korean Peninsula, northeastern China, and the Russian Far East. Winters across Southeast Asia from southern China and the Philippines to the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Borneo, and parts of Indonesia. Occupies forest canopies and edges, secondary growth, parks, and plantations. Frequently moves through mixed flocks and traverses coastal corridors during migration.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Other
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Ashy minivets are sleek, canopy-foraging passerines that travel long distances between temperate East Asian breeding grounds and tropical Southeast Asian wintering areas. Unlike many other minivets, they lack reds and yellows, showing a refined palette of greys, whites, and blacks. They often join mixed-species flocks and can be spotted by their crisp white wing panels flashing through the treetops.
Patterning of the male
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile, darting canopy flights
Social Behavior
Often travels in small groups and readily joins mixed-species foraging parties. Pairs form during the breeding season and build small cup nests high in trees, typically on exposed horizontal branches. Both sexes participate in nesting duties.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Emits thin, high-pitched whistles and sweet, clear notes, often delivered in short series. Calls carry well through the canopy and are useful for detecting flocks on the move.
