The sultan tit is an Asian forest bird with black upperparts plumage and yellow underparts, dark bill, and a yellow or black crest. The sexes are similar, though the female has slightly duller plumage with greenish-black upperparts and throat. The young bird is duller than the adult and has a shorter crest. It is the only member of the monotypic genus Melanochlora, which is fairly distinct from other tits, third-basal in the family Paridae after Cephalopyrus and Sylviparus.
Region
South and Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Found from the Himalayan foothills of northeast India through Bangladesh and Myanmar to Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Peninsular Malaysia, reaching parts of Sumatra. It inhabits primary and mature secondary evergreen and moist deciduous forests, often with bamboo. The species favors tall forest canopies and edges, but will also use well-wooded parks and tea estates with shade trees. It is typically seen in pairs or small groups moving through the upper levels of the forest.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The sultan tit is the sole member of the genus Melanochlora and is one of the largest tits. Its flamboyant, erect crest is usually bright yellow but is black in some populations. It forages high in the canopy and often joins mixed-species flocks in Asian evergreen forests. Despite its striking appearance, it remains poorly known in parts of its range.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family parties, often joining mixed-species canopy flocks. It nests in cavities such as tree holes, lining the chamber with soft materials. Breeding is thought to be monogamous, with both parents provisioning the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives clear, whistled notes interspersed with chattering scolds. Calls carry well through the canopy and are used to maintain contact within small groups.
