The Bornean shortwing is a species of bird in the Old World flycatcher family Muscicapidae. It is endemic to Borneo where it favours montane forest.
Region
Borneo (Southeast Asia)
Typical Environment
Occurs in the highlands of Borneo across Sabah and Sarawak (Malaysia), Brunei, and Kalimantan (Indonesia). It favors dense, mossy montane forest and forest edges, especially along shaded gullies and near streams. The species keeps close to the ground, using thick undergrowth and root tangles for cover. It also occupies stunted montane scrub above the treeline edge and bamboo thickets where available.
Altitude Range
900–3200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Once treated as part of the white-browed shortwing complex, it was split based on vocal and genetic differences and is now recognized as a distinct Bornean endemic. It is a shy, ground-loving bird of mossy montane forest, often heard before seen. Males are deep blue and females brown, a striking sexual dimorphism typical of shortwings.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low to the ground
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs, maintaining territories in dense understory. Nests are usually well-concealed near the ground in banks, root tangles, or mossy ledges. Both parents are believed to participate in rearing the young, with strong site fidelity in suitable habitat.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, high-pitched whistles and sweet, thin trills delivered from concealed perches. Calls include sharp, metallic ticks and seep notes, often given when alarmed.
Plumage
Male is deep cobalt-blue with darker face and a short tail; female is warm brown with rufous-washed underparts and similarly short tail. Both sexes have soft, dense plumage suited to cool, wet montane habitats.
Diet
Primarily feeds on insects and other small invertebrates such as beetles, caterpillars, spiders, and ants. It occasionally takes small worms and may supplement with berries when available. Foraging involves deliberate hopping and gleaning, flipping leaf litter, and probing mossy substrates.
Preferred Environment
Forages on the forest floor and in low understory of mossy montane forest, especially along stream margins and damp gullies. It favors areas with dense cover, fallen logs, and exposed roots that provide both prey and concealment.
