Jerdon's bush chat is a species of bird in the family Muscicapidae.
Region
Northeast Indian subcontinent
Typical Environment
Occurs mainly in extensive alluvial floodplain grasslands, especially along large river systems such as the Brahmaputra and adjacent wetlands. Prefers tall, dense grasses and reeds (e.g., Saccharum, Phragmites, Imperata) with scattered bushes and open patches for foraging. Often found on seasonally inundated river islands, marsh edges, and wet meadows. Uses low perches to sally for insects and to sing during the breeding season.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 600 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Jerdon's bush chat is a small insectivorous passerine of the Muscicapidae that favors tall riverine grasslands and reedbeds. It was named after the British naturalist Thomas C. Jerdon. The species often perches on grass stems or low shrubs, flicking its tail while scanning for prey. Loss and burning of floodplain grasslands are key threats across much of its range.
Temperament
skulking and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, undulating flights
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs; pairs defend small territories during the breeding season. Nests low in dense grass or at the base of tussocks, forming a cup of grasses and fibers. Males sing from exposed stems or low shrubs to advertise territory and attract mates.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a short series of simple, scratchy warbles and whistles delivered from a perch. Calls include sharp tak or tchik notes typical of chats, used in alarm and contact.
Plumage
Male appears dark sooty-brown to blackish above with a contrasting pale or white wing patch and warmer buff to rufous tones below; a faint pale supercilium may be visible. Female is warm brown and more subtly marked, with streaking above and paler buff underparts; both sexes show dark tail with paler edges.
Diet
Feeds primarily on insects such as beetles, ants, grasshoppers, and small caterpillars. Also takes spiders and other small arthropods. Forages by gleaning from low vegetation and by short sallies to the ground or into the air to snatch prey.
Preferred Environment
Most often hunts along edges of tall grass, reedbeds, and marshy clearings with scattered perches. Uses river islands, wet meadows, and lightly scrubby patches adjacent to wetlands.
