The bare-headed laughingthrush is a species of bird in the Old World babbler family Timaliidae. It is endemic to highland forests at elevations of 750–1,800 m (2,460–5,910 ft) in the mountain ranges of north-central Borneo, along with some outlying peaks. It is 25–26 cm (9.8–10.2 in) long, with both sexes similar in appearance. The head is brownish to greenish yellow and featherless. The area along the lower mandible has a bluish tinge. The rest of the body is dull blackish-brown tinged with grey. Juveniles have more feathers on the head, extending from the forehead to the crown.
Region
Borneo Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs in north-central Borneo with records from Malaysian states (Sarawak, Sabah), Brunei, and adjacent Indonesian highlands. It inhabits lower montane and mossy forests, dense thickets, and bamboo on ridges and steep slopes. Birds keep close to cover, foraging from the understorey to the mid-storey. It may use forest edges and partially degraded montane forest if sufficient undergrowth remains.
Altitude Range
750–1800 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This secretive laughingthrush has a distinctive bare, yellowish head that contrasts with its dark body—an adaptation possibly linked to foraging in damp, mossy vegetation. It is confined to the highland forests of Borneo and is rarely seen, more often detected by its low, chuckling calls. Habitat loss and trapping pressure have contributed to its decline.
Illustration of adult and juvenile bare-headed laughingthrushes by John Gerrard Keulemans
Temperament
skulking and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between dense cover
Social Behavior
Usually in pairs or small family parties moving through dense undergrowth. Often stays low, creeping and hopping while probing leaves and moss. Nests are presumed cup-shaped and placed low in vegetation; both parents likely participate in care as in related laughingthrushes.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are low, resonant chuckles and churring phrases with a laughing quality. Calls carry softly through the forest and are given in contact within pairs or small groups.
