The Taiwan bush robin is a small passerine bird in the Old World flycatcher family Muscicapidae that is endemic to Taiwan. It was formerly considered as a subspecies of the white-browed bush robin.
Region
Taiwan
Typical Environment
Found in montane evergreen and mixed conifer-broadleaf forests with dense understory, mossy logs, and thickets of bamboo or rhododendron. It favors shaded ravines, forest edges, and clearings where cover is abundant. During the non-breeding season it may descend slightly to lower montane zones but remains in wooded habitats. Territories are typically small and centered on dense ground vegetation. The species avoids open country and urban areas.
Altitude Range
1200–3200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Taiwan bush robin is a shy understory specialist of Taiwan’s high mountain forests, often keeping to dense cover and emerging briefly to forage. It was formerly treated as a subspecies of the white-browed bush robin but is now recognized as a distinct species. Males show a striking white eyebrow and warm rufous tail, features that are useful for identification in dim forest light.
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low over the understory
Social Behavior
Typically observed alone or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Pairs defend small territories in dense cover. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low, often near the ground in thick vegetation or among roots and mossy banks. Outside breeding, it remains elusive and does not form large flocks.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, sweet series of thin, high-pitched whistles delivered from concealed perches. Calls include sharp tseet notes and short, buzzy chips. The song carries poorly in wind but travels through still forest understory.
