The green shrike-babbler is a bird species that was earlier placed in the family Timaliidae. The species is now considered to be an Asian offshoot of the American vireos and belongs in the family Vireonidae.
Region
Himalayas to Southwest China and northern Indochina
Typical Environment
Found from the central and eastern Himalayas through Bhutan, northeast India, and Myanmar into southwest China (e.g., Yunnan, Sichuan) and parts of northern Indochina. It inhabits montane evergreen broadleaf, oak–rhododendron, and mixed conifer-broadleaf forests. Prefers mid to upper canopy layers and forest edges, including secondary growth. Performs local upslope and downslope movements with seasons and weather but is generally resident within its range.
Altitude Range
1200–3200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Despite its common name, the green shrike-babbler is now placed with the New World vireos (family Vireonidae), representing an Asian lineage that convergently evolved shrike-like bills. It often joins mixed-species flocks in montane forests and uses a stout, slightly hooked bill to pick insects from foliage. Males are brighter green-yellow, while females are duller and more olive. Its repetitive, whistled song is reminiscent of true vireos.
Illustration of the Pteruthius Xanthoclorus(Green shrike-babbler) by John Gould
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick darts between branches
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups and regularly joins mixed-species foraging flocks. Builds a neat cup nest in a fork or suspended from slender branches, typically concealed in foliage. Both sexes participate in nesting duties, and territories are defended mainly during the breeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, sweet, whistled notes delivered in measured phrases, often repeated. Calls include sharp chips and scolds, especially when foraging in mixed flocks.
Plumage
Predominantly bright olive-green with yellow-tinged underparts and a greyer head and nape; wings show pale edging and a faint wingbar. The tail is short and the bill is stout and slightly hooked. Females and immatures are duller and more uniformly olive.
Diet
Feeds primarily on arthropods such as caterpillars, beetles, and other insects gleaned from leaves and twigs. Will hover-glean and make short sallies to snatch prey from foliage. Occasionally takes small fruits and berries, especially outside the breeding season.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the mid to upper canopy of montane broadleaf and mixed forests, often along edges, gaps, and in rhododendron thickets. Frequently accompanies mixed-species flocks, moving methodically through foliage.
