David's fulvetta is a species in the family Alcippeidae. It is distributed across Myanmar, Laos, mainland China, Vietnam, and Thailand. The conservation status of this species is assessed as Least Concern.
Region
Southeast Asia and southern China
Typical Environment
Found in southern and central China extending into Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam, and northern Thailand. It inhabits evergreen and mixed montane forests, secondary growth, and dense thickets, including bamboo and rhododendron. Birds frequently use the understory to midstory and will edge into forest margins and scrub. Local elevational movements may occur following food availability and weather.
Altitude Range
800–2600 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
David's fulvetta is a small, active babbler in the family Alcippeidae, often joining mixed-species flocks in forest understories. It ranges across southern China and parts of mainland Southeast Asia and remains common where suitable habitat persists. The species performs local movements along elevation gradients but does not undertake long-distance migrations.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically forages in small groups and readily joins mixed-species flocks in the understory. Breeding pairs build neat cup nests low in shrubs or dense vegetation and are thought to be monogamous. Territoriality increases during the breeding season, but outside of it birds are more gregarious.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a soft, high-pitched series of thin chips and trills, delivered in short phrases from cover. Calls include buzzy scolds and quick contact notes that help maintain group cohesion in dense foliage.
