The golden-fronted leafbird is a species of leafbird. It is found from the Indian subcontinent and south-western China, to south-east Asia and Sumatra.
Region
South and Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs from the Indian subcontinent through southwestern China to mainland Southeast Asia and Sumatra. Inhabits evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, forest edges, bamboo, secondary growth, orchards, and well-wooded gardens. Prefers mid- to upper-canopy strata but will descend to flowering shrubs and fruiting trees. Tolerates moderately disturbed habitats provided mature trees and flowering resources persist.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Golden-fronted leafbirds are canopy dwellers that often join mixed-species flocks and skillfully glean insects among leaves. They also sip nectar and can act as pollinators at flowering trees. Males show a striking golden forehead and black mask, while females are greener and lack the mask. Their song is varied and includes impressive mimicry of other birds.
Temperament
active and somewhat shy
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with undulating movements between perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, and frequently joins mixed-species foraging flocks in the canopy. Builds a neat cup-shaped nest suspended from foliage; breeding pairs are territorial around nest sites. Both parents tend the young, bringing insects and soft fruits.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Rich, fluty whistles mixed with harsh notes and chatters. Frequently mimics calls and phrases of other forest birds, producing a varied and sometimes ventriloquial repertoire.
Plumage
Bright leaf-green body with smooth, glossy feathers; males have a golden to orange forehead and crown with a contrasting black mask and throat, often with bluish highlights on the wings.
Diet
Eats a mix of fruits (such as figs and other soft berries), nectar from flowering trees, and a range of arthropods including caterpillars, beetles, and spiders. Gleans prey from leaves and flowers and occasionally sallies to catch flying insects. Regularly visits blooming Bombax, Erythrina, and other nectar sources, sometimes becoming pollen-dusted.
Preferred Environment
Forages mainly in the mid to upper canopy of forests, edge habitats, and mature gardens. Often concentrates at fruiting and flowering trees where resources are temporarily abundant.
