Orange-billed babbler

The orange-billed babbler, also known as Ceylon rufous babbler or Sri Lankan rufous babbler, is a member of the family Leiothrichidae.

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Distribution

Region

South Asia (Sri Lanka)

Typical Environment

Occurs in Sri Lanka’s wet-zone lowland and foothill rainforests, as well as forest edges, secondary growth, and dense thickets. It prefers tangled undergrowth, vine tangles, bamboo, and scrubby clearings near mature forest. The species regularly moves with mixed-species flocks led by drongos and other nucleus species. It can tolerate selectively logged forest and tea/plantation edges where sufficient dense cover remains.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 1700 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size21–23 cm

Wing Span28–32 cm

Male Weight0.06 kg

Female Weight0.055 kg

Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

Also called the Ceylon or Sri Lankan rufous babbler, this species is a noisy, highly social forest bird restricted to Sri Lanka. It often joins mixed-species feeding flocks in wet-zone forests and is a key participant in these mobile bird waves. Groups show cooperative behavior, with multiple birds helping to raise young. The bright orange bill and pale eye make it easy to distinguish from the more widespread yellow-billed babbler.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

social and active

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with low, fluttering flights between cover

Social Behavior

Lives in noisy parties of 6–20 birds that maintain close contact while foraging. Exhibits cooperative breeding, with group members assisting in territory defense and chick provisioning. Nests are typically cup-shaped and placed low in dense shrubs or tangles.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Loud, chattering series of nasal scolds, chucks, and rattles delivered antiphonally by the group. Calls accelerate during excitement and when moving with mixed-species flocks.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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