The Burmese yuhina is a species of bird in the family Zosteropidae. It is found in Myanmar and Thailand. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
It inhabits subtropical and tropical moist montane forests in Myanmar and adjacent western Thailand. The species favors dense evergreen and mixed broadleaf forests, forest edges, and secondary growth near ridgelines. It frequently forages in the mid to upper canopy, moving quickly through foliage. Small parties may descend to shrubby clearings and bamboo thickets when food is abundant.
Altitude Range
600–2500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Burmese yuhina is a small, active forest bird that often joins mixed-species flocks in montane evergreen forests. It typically travels in chattering groups through the mid-canopy, gleaning insects and small fruits. The species shows a slight crest and subtle facial markings that help distinguish it from other yuhinas. It is associated with the white-eye family (Zosteropidae) in some taxonomies.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often travels in small flocks and readily joins mixed-species feeding parties with other montane birds. Pairs form during the breeding season and likely build a small cup nest in dense foliage. Outside breeding, groups remain cohesive while foraging and calling to maintain contact.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of thin, high-pitched chips and twitters interspersed with short trills. Calls are conversational and frequent while flocking, becoming more musical during the breeding season.
Plumage
Soft, brownish-olive upperparts with paler underparts and a subtle, slightly crested crown; fine, neat feathering around the face and throat.
Diet
Feeds primarily on small insects, caterpillars, and other arthropods gleaned from leaves and twigs. Also consumes berries, small fruits, and occasionally nectar when available. Foraging is active and involves quick hops and short sallies within the canopy.
Preferred Environment
Mid- to upper-canopy of moist montane evergreen forests, edges, and secondary growth. Will use bamboo and shrubby gaps where fruiting and insect activity are concentrated.
