Blue-winged leafbird

The blue-winged leafbird is a species of leafbird found in forest and second growth throughout Southeast Asia as far east as Borneo and as far south as southern Sumatra. It previously included Jerdon's leafbird from the Indian Subcontinent, and the Bornean leafbird from northern Borneo as subspecies, but differs from both in measurements and morphology, with Jerdon's lacking any blue to the flight feathers, and Bornean having a distinctive male-like female plumage. The Javan leafbird, which is endemic to Java, was also formerly grouped with the species, but more recent phylogenetic studies have split both. The distribution of the blue-winged and the Bornean leafbird are known to approach each other, but there is no evidence of intergradation.

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Distribution

Region

Southeast Asia

Typical Environment

Occurs from southern Myanmar and Thailand through Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam, south into the Malay Peninsula, and onto Sumatra and Borneo. It inhabits lowland and foothill evergreen forest, forest edge, and well-wooded secondary growth. The species readily visits flowering trees, orchards, and gardens near forest. It is mostly non-migratory, moving locally in response to food availability. Where ranges approach the Bornean leafbird, there is no evidence of intergradation.

Altitude Range

0–1500 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size17–19 cm

Wing Span24–28 cm

Male Weight0.03 kg

Female Weight0.028 kg

Life Expectancy8 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 2/5

Useful to know

Blue-winged leafbirds are canopy specialists noted for their vivid leaf-green plumage and the male’s black facial mask. They can mimic the calls of other birds and often visit flowering trees for nectar, aiding pollination. This species formerly included Jerdon’s, Bornean, and Javan leafbirds, which are now treated as separate species based on morphology and genetics. Trapping for the cage-bird trade affects some populations locally.

Gallery

C. c. viridinucha

Behaviour

Temperament

active and territorial

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats; agile canopy flier

Social Behavior

Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups; often joins mixed-species flocks at fruiting or flowering trees. Pairs defend feeding and nesting areas vigorously. The nest is a small, well-hidden cup placed high in foliage, and both parents assist in care.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A rich, varied warble interspersed with whistles and chattering notes. Skilled mimicry is common, with phrases borrowed from other forest birds, delivered from high perches.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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