The Dayak blue flycatcher is a species of bird in the family Muscicapidae. It is endemic to the island of Borneo. The Dayak blue flycatcher, formerly considered conspecific with the Javan blue flycatcher, was split as a distinct species by the IOC in 2021.
Region
Borneo
Typical Environment
Occurs in the forested lowlands and foothills of Borneo, including primary and well-structured secondary evergreen forest. It favors shaded understory along streams, gullies, and forest edges where it can sally for insects from low perches. It may also use selectively logged forest if sufficient understory and midstory cover remain. Overall, it is tied to humid, closed-canopy habitats and avoids open country.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Dayak blue flycatcher is a recently recognized species, split from the Javan blue flycatcher by the IOC in 2021. It is confined to Borneo and named after the Dayak peoples of the island. Males show vivid blue upperparts contrasted with warm orange on the breast, while females are more subdued and brownish with bluish tones.
Temperament
shy and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick sallies
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs during the breeding season. Holds small territories in suitable understory habitat. Nests are placed in natural cavities, banks, or sheltered crevices, with both parents contributing to care of the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A clear, sweet series of mellow whistles delivered from a shaded perch, often at dawn. Calls include thin, high chips and soft ticking notes when agitated or foraging.
Plumage
Male with bright cobalt-blue head and upperparts, rich orange throat to upper breast, and clean whitish belly; wings and tail deep blue. Female is brownish-olive above with bluish tinge on wings and tail, warm buffy throat and breast grading to pale belly. Both sexes have fine, neat plumage with slight gloss on the male’s blue areas.
Diet
Primarily hunts small insects such as flies, beetles, moths, and spiders, taken by short sallies from low to mid-level perches. It also gleans prey from leaves and twigs in the understory. Occasional small berries may be taken when insect activity is low.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in shaded forest understory near streams, clearings, and along trails where perches and flycatching lanes are available. Often forages 1–5 m above ground, returning repeatedly to favored perches.
