Region

Sumatra (Greater Sundas, Indonesia)

Typical Environment

Occurs in primary and mature secondary lowland and hill evergreen forests across Sumatra, including dipterocarp and riverine forests. It frequents forest edges, clearings, and along streams where open sightlines allow for aerial foraging. The species is mostly tied to intact canopy and midstory strata, but may persist in selectively logged forest if structure remains. Peat-swamp and foothill forests are also used locally, though extensive deforestation has reduced available habitat.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 1200 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Temperament

bold and territorial

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with agile sallies

Social Behavior

Typically seen singly or in pairs, occasionally joining mixed-species flocks in the midstory. Monogamous pairs build a neat cup nest high in trees and both parents feed the nestlings. They defend territories vigorously, mobbing larger birds that approach the nest area.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A varied mix of whistles, metallic notes, and harsh scolds delivered from exposed perches. Capable of mimicry, folding borrowed phrases into its repertoire and changing calls when excited or alarmed.

Diet

Primarily hunts flying insects such as beetles, moths, butterflies, and dragonflies, captured by sallying from a perch. It also gleans caterpillars and other arthropods from foliage and occasionally takes small vertebrates. Fruit may be consumed opportunistically, especially when insect activity is low.

Preferred Environment

Forages from midstory and subcanopy perches along forest edges, gaps, and stream corridors. Often uses prominent snags or lianas as launch points for short aerial pursuits, returning to the same perch repeatedly.