The long-tailed sibia is a species of Leiothrichidae from Southeast Asia. The species was once placed in the large family Timaliidae, but that family is sometimes split with this species being placed with the laughingthrushes in the family Leiothrichidae. The species is sometimes treated as the only species in the genus Heterophasia, with the other species being placed in the genus Malacias.
Region
Himalayas and Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs from the eastern Himalayas (NE India, Bhutan) through Myanmar, southern China and northern Indochina to the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra and Borneo. Prefers evergreen and mossy montane forests, oak–rhododendron woods, and forest edges. It readily uses secondary growth and bamboo thickets near intact forest. Birds often forage in the mid-story and canopy, moving along ridges and gullies. In some islands it is common in submontane forest interiors and along disturbed edges.
Altitude Range
800–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The long-tailed sibia is a lively canopy bird of Asian montane forests, often joining mixed-species flocks. It was historically placed with the babblers but is now in the family Leiothrichidae alongside laughingthrushes. Its conspicuous white wing patch and long tail make it easy to pick out as it flits between mossy trees.
From Arunachal Pradesh, India.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile, hopping flights between canopy gaps
Social Behavior
Frequently travels in small, noisy groups and often joins mixed-species flocks. Pairs nest in cup-shaped nests placed in shrubs or small trees within dense forest. Territorial defense is moderate and largely vocal, with group cohesion maintained by constant contact calls.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Delivers a series of clear, thin whistles interspersed with chatters and nasal notes. Calls are sharp and carrying, used to keep groups together as they move through the canopy.
