The dark-backed sibia is a bird species in the family Leiothrichidae. In former times it was included the black-headed sibia, H. desgodinsi. Together with most other sibias, it is sometimes separated in the genus Malacias. It is found in China, Myanmar and Thailand. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Region
Southern China and Mainland Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
It inhabits subtropical and tropical moist montane forests, favoring dense mid-elevation evergreen and oak-rhododendron forests. Birds are most often seen along forest edges, secondary growth, and bamboo thickets adjacent to mature forest. They forage from understory to mid-canopy, frequently following mixed flocks along ridgelines and forested slopes. Proximity to streams and mossy, epiphyte-rich trees is common within its range.
Altitude Range
900–2600 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The dark-backed sibia is a montane babbler that often joins mixed-species foraging flocks, moving restlessly through mid-story vegetation. It has at times been separated in the genus Malacias and has had a complex taxonomic relationship with the black-headed sibia (H. desgodinsi). Despite being somewhat skulking, it is quite vocal and frequently reveals its presence by its ringing calls.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually travels in pairs or small groups and commonly associates with mixed-species flocks. Nests are typically placed in dense shrubs or low trees, with both parents involved in care. Territoriality is moderate, with more tolerance shown when food is abundant.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, ringing whistles interspersed with chattering notes. Calls are often given while moving through foliage and can carry well through montane forest.
Plumage
Sooty to slate-dark back with paler gray underparts and a contrasting darker head. Long, graduated tail often with paler edges or tips and subtly warmer tones on the wings. Clean, pale throat that stands out against the darker face.
Diet
Feeds on insects and other small arthropods gleaned from leaves and twigs. Also takes berries and small fruits, and will sample nectar from flowering shrubs when available. Foraging is quick and deliberate, often in the company of other mid-story insectivores and omnivores.
Preferred Environment
Forages along forest edges, gaps, and mid-story tangles within evergreen or mixed broadleaf forests. Frequently uses bamboo, vine tangles, and rhododendron thickets where prey is abundant.
