The Himalayan cutia is a bird species in the family Leiothrichidae. Its scientific name ultimately means "the khutya from Nepal", as Cutia is derived from the Nepali name for these birds, and nipalensis is Latin for "from Nepal".
Region
Central and Eastern Himalayas and adjacent ranges
Typical Environment
Occurs in mid- to high-elevation evergreen and mixed broadleaf–conifer forests, especially oak–rhododendron forests with bamboo understory. It favors mossy, mature forest with abundant epiphytes, foraging from the mid-story to canopy. The species ranges from Nepal across Bhutan and northeastern India into northern Myanmar and parts of southwest China. Local occurrence can be patchy, following tracts of intact montane forest.
Altitude Range
1200–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Himalayan cutia is a striking montane songbird of the family Leiothrichidae, named from the Nepali word 'cutia' and the Latin 'nipalensis' meaning 'from Nepal'. It often joins mixed-species flocks, moving methodically along mossy trunks and branches to glean insects. Its bold black-and-white wing pattern and rich chestnut underparts make it distinctive even in dim forest light.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between trees
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups and frequently joins mixed-species foraging flocks. Forages methodically along branches and trunks, gleaning and probing among moss and lichens. Breeding pairs are presumed monogamous, with both adults participating in care of the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of clear, sweet whistled phrases delivered at intervals, often from within the canopy. Calls include thin, high-pitched contact notes and soft chatter while moving with flocks.
Plumage
Boldly patterned with a gray head, dark crown and mask, rich chestnut underparts, and black wings marked with conspicuous white spots and bars. Upperparts are gray-brown with contrasting patterned tertials and coverts; tail shows white corners in flight.
Diet
Primarily feeds on arthropods such as beetles, caterpillars, and other larvae gleaned from bark, moss, and foliage. Also takes small fruits and berries, especially when insect availability is lower. Will occasionally probe into epiphytes and leaf clusters to extract hidden prey.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the mid-story to canopy of mature montane forest, along moss-covered branches, trunks, and dense tangles. Often uses forest edges, bamboo thickets, and ravines where insect prey is concentrated.
