The black-necklaced scimitar babbler is a species of bird in the family Timaliidae.
Region
Taiwan (East Asia)
Typical Environment
Occurs widely in foothill and low montane broadleaf forests, forest edges, bamboo stands, and secondary growth. It favors dense understorey and scrub where it can move covertly. Also uses plantations and hedgerows near forested areas. Common in suitable thickets across much of the island.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Endemic to Taiwan, this timaliid is best known for the bold black 'necklace' across its throat and upper breast. Its long, down-curved scimitar bill is adapted for probing leaf litter and bamboo tangles for hidden prey. Pairs often duet with loud, ringing calls that carry through forest edges and thickets.
Temperament
skulking yet active in dense cover
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; reluctant flier, prefers to run and hop through vegetation
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups and frequently joins mixed-species flocks. Nests low in dense shrubs or bamboo; both sexes participate in care. Territorial during the breeding season but otherwise tolerant of neighbors.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A loud, ringing series of clear whistles often delivered as coordinated duets between pair members. Calls include sharp scolds and repetitive notes that carry far through thickets.
Plumage
Warm brown upperparts with rufous tones, grayish underparts, and a white throat bordered by a distinct black necklace. Prominent whitish supercilium contrasts with a darker facial mask; feathers are smooth and close-textured for moving through dense cover.
Diet
Primarily hunts insects and other small invertebrates such as beetles, ants, caterpillars, spiders, and small snails. Uses its long bill to probe leaf litter, moss, and bamboo culms. Occasionally takes small fruits or berries, especially in the non-breeding season.
Preferred Environment
Forages close to the ground in dense undergrowth, bamboo, and along forest edges. Often works along thickets and tangled vegetation where cover is abundant.
