The black-streaked scimitar babbler is a species of bird in the family Timaliidae. It is found in China, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam, where its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest and subtropical or tropical moist montane forest.
Region
Southern China and Indochina
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern and central China south into Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam. It inhabits subtropical and tropical moist lowland and montane forests, including evergreen broadleaf forest and mixed secondary growth. Frequently uses dense undergrowth, bamboo, thickets along streams, and forest edges. The species is typically associated with shaded, humid habitats with abundant leaf litter and tangled understory.
Altitude Range
0–2200 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Named for the bold dark streaking on its throat and breast, this shy understory babbler is more often heard than seen. Its long, scimitar-shaped bill is adapted for probing leaf litter and moss for hidden invertebrates. Pairs often duet with rich, antiphonal whistles that carry through dense forest. It tolerates secondary growth and bamboo thickets, which helps its overall resilience.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups moving low in dense cover. Forms loose mixed-species flocks outside the breeding season. Nests are typically well-concealed cups or domes placed low in vegetation. Pairs maintain territories and coordinate movements with contact calls.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Loud, mellow whistles often delivered in antiphonal duets between mates. Also gives sharp scolds and chatter when alarmed, with notes that carry through thick undergrowth.
Plumage
Warm brown upperparts with greyer tones on the head and nape, and pale buff to grey underparts marked with distinct black streaks on the throat and breast. Feathers are soft and loose, aiding a skulking lifestyle in dense vegetation.
Diet
Primarily takes insects and other small invertebrates, including beetles, ants, caterpillars, and spiders. Probes among leaf litter, moss, and bark crevices with its strongly decurved bill. Occasionally consumes small berries or seeds, especially when invertebrate prey is scarce.
Preferred Environment
Feeds low in the understory and on the forest floor, favoring dense thickets, bamboo, and streamside tangles. Often forages along fallen logs, root tangles, and in vine-choked edges where prey accumulates.
