Region

South and Southeast Asia

Typical Environment

Inhabits lowland and foothill evergreen forests, especially along shaded streams, ravines, and densely vegetated gullies. It also uses secondary growth, bamboo thickets, and forest edges provided there is dense understory cover. Often keeps to dark, humid microhabitats and perches quietly 1–3 m above the ground or water. Breeding typically occurs along earthen banks where it can excavate nesting burrows. It generally avoids open country and heavily disturbed areas.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 1000 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Temperament

solitary and secretive

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats, low through dense cover

Social Behavior

Usually seen alone or in pairs during the breeding season. Pairs excavate burrows in stream or path banks, where 3–5 eggs are laid; both sexes partake in incubation and feeding of young. Outside breeding, it remains elusive in dense understory and is seldom observed in large groups.

Migratory Pattern

Partial migrant

Song Description

Gives thin, high-pitched whistles and sharp 'tsip' or 'tsee' notes, often repeated in a rapid series. The calls carry surprisingly well in forest but are brief and easily missed. Vocalizations are more frequent at dawn and near nesting sites.

Diet

Takes a variety of small prey including insects such as beetles, crickets, and ants, as well as spiders, small frogs, lizards, and occasionally tiny fish or crabs. Hunts from low perches, sallying to the ground, leaf litter, or shallow water to seize prey. Often beats larger prey on a perch before swallowing.

Preferred Environment

Feeds in dark, humid forest undergrowth near shaded streams, pools, and seepages. Also forages along overgrown trails and in bamboo or dense thickets where cover is ample. Less frequently seen at open water bodies.