The rufous sibia is a species of bird in the family Leiothrichidae. It feeds on berries and insects.
Region
Himalayas and adjacent foothills
Typical Environment
Found from northern Pakistan and India across Nepal and Bhutan into northeastern India and adjacent regions. Prefers montane broadleaf and mixed forests, especially oak–rhododendron woodland, forest edges, and secondary growth. Frequently uses shrubby slopes, wooded ravines, and hill gardens. Often accompanies mixed feeding flocks along ridgelines and forest margins.
Altitude Range
1200–3600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Rufous sibias are lively Himalayan songbirds often seen in mixed-species flocks with other laughingthrush allies. They readily visit fruiting trees and sometimes sip nectar from rhododendron blooms, using their slightly decurved bills. Around hill stations they can be surprisingly confiding, moving through gardens and forest edges.
Temperament
active and alert
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief undulations between trees
Social Behavior
Typically seen in pairs or small family groups and frequently joins mixed-species flocks. Builds a neat cup nest in shrubs or small trees; both parents participate in rearing young. Breeding occurs mainly in spring to early summer depending on altitude.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A sweet, melodious series of clear whistles and warbles delivered from exposed perches. Calls include thin tseet notes and harsher scolds when alarmed.
Plumage
Warm rufous body with contrasting dark cap and mask; wings and tail darker with a pale or whitish wing panel. Feathers sleek and smooth, tail long and slightly graduated.
Diet
Feeds on berries and small fruits, supplemented by insects and other arthropods gleaned from foliage and bark. Will hover briefly to pick items and occasionally sallies for flying insects. In flowering seasons it may take nectar from rhododendron and other blossoms.
Preferred Environment
Forages in mid to upper canopy along forest edges, in oak–rhododendron stands, and in secondary growth. Also visits orchards and hill gardens, especially when fruiting.
