The short-tailed scimitar babbler or Indochinese wren-babbler, is a species of bird in the family Pellorneidae. It is found in Laos and Vietnam. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest and subtropical or tropical moist montane forest. It is threatened by habitat loss. The Naung Mung scimitar babbler was formerly considered a distinct species, but is now considered conspecific.
Region
Indochina
Typical Environment
Occurs in central and southern Vietnam and adjacent Laos, mainly along the Annamite Range. It inhabits subtropical and tropical moist evergreen forests, favoring dense understory and thickets. The species is frequently associated with bamboo tangles, scrubby edges, and forested ravines, and it often stays near the ground. It tolerates selectively logged forest but declines in heavily degraded habitats.
Altitude Range
100–1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the Indochinese wren-babbler, this shy forest skulker is noted for its very short tail and down-curved, scimitar-like bill. It keeps close to the ground in dense understory, where pairs often duet with clear, whistled phrases. Habitat loss and fragmentation across Indochina are the primary threats to this species.
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low to the ground
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs, sometimes with family groups. Nests are typically placed low or near the ground in dense vegetation, and pairs are believed to be monogamous. They often keep in contact with soft calls while foraging through leaf litter.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, whistled notes often delivered as a duet between pair members, interspersed with soft scolding calls. The song carries well through dense understory despite the bird’s secretive habits.
