The brown parrotbill is a parrotbill found in the central and eastern Himalayas. It is also known as the brown suthora. This is a 17–19 cm (6.7–7.5 in) long grey-brown bird with a long tail and a characteristic small, yellowish, parrot-like bill. A dark stripe runs above the eyes and along the sides of the crown. The bird moves in small groups and will sometimes join mixed species foraging flocks. It is found in Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, and Nepal.
Region
Central and Eastern Himalayas
Typical Environment
This species frequents dense bamboo, shrubby thickets, and the edges of montane broadleaf and rhododendron forests. It favors tangled understory where it can forage close to the ground and within bamboo culms. Birds may move locally along slopes to track food availability and cover. It occurs from Bhutan and Nepal east through northeastern India and into Myanmar and south-central China.
Altitude Range
1500–3500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The brown parrotbill is a bamboo specialist, often slipping through dense undergrowth with quick, mouse-like movements. It frequently joins mixed-species foraging flocks, using quiet contact calls to stay in touch with its group. Both sexes look similar, which can make individuals tricky to tell apart in the field.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low bounding flights through cover
Social Behavior
Typically moves in small family parties and readily joins mixed-species flocks in the understory. Nests are placed low in dense bamboo or shrubs, where pairs remain secretive. Pairs maintain contact with soft calls while foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of soft, tinkling notes and thin twitters interspersed with scolding chips. The song is understated and often delivered from within cover, making the bird easier to hear than see.
