The rufous-bellied niltava is a species of bird in the family Muscicapidae.
Region
Himalayas to northern Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs mainly in subtropical and temperate montane forests, including moist broadleaf and mixed oak-rhododendron woodlands. Prefers dense, shaded understory near ravines, streams, and forest edges. Breeds at higher elevations and often descends to lower foothills and valleys in the non-breeding season. It is typically found in well-vegetated gullies and thickets where it can perch quietly and sally for prey.
Altitude Range
500–2700 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The rufous-bellied niltava is a striking Old World flycatcher with strong sexual dimorphism: males are deep blue above with a rich rufous belly, while females are brown with a warm orange wash below. It favors shady forest understories and often hunts by sallying out from a low perch. Many populations shift downslope in winter, making it an altitudinal partial migrant. Its clear, whistled song carries surprisingly far through montane forests.
Temperament
shy and retiring
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick sallies
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Nests are placed in natural cavities, banks, or crevices lined with moss and fibers. Pairs maintain small territories and often remain close to shaded perches.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, mellow whistles delivered from a concealed perch. Calls include soft ticks and thin, sweet phrases, often repeated in short sequences.
Plumage
Male has deep cobalt-blue head and upperparts with a blackish face and rich rufous underparts; female is warm brown above with buffy throat and orange-rufous belly, often with a faint pale eye-ring.
Diet
Primarily takes insects such as beetles, flies, moths, and caterpillars, captured by sallying from low perches. Also gleans from foliage and picks prey from the ground or streamside rocks. Supplements its diet with small berries and other soft fruits, especially outside the breeding season.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in dense understory, along shaded trails, gullies, and near forest streams. Often hunts from a favored perch, making short forays into open gaps and back to cover.
