The Taiwan shortwing is a species of chat. This species is now classified in the family Muscicapidae.
Region
East Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs only in the montane forests of Taiwan, favoring dense understory in evergreen broadleaf and mixed conifer–broadleaf forest. It keeps close to the ground, using tangled vegetation, mossy banks, and bamboo clumps for cover. The species frequents ravines, edges of montane trails, and damp gullies with thick leaf litter. It is highly local to suitable habitat but can be fairly common where intact forest persists.
Altitude Range
1200–3200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A shy, ground-loving chat, the Taiwan shortwing skulks through dense understory and bamboo thickets in Taiwan’s high mountains. It was formerly placed with thrushes but is now classified within Muscicapidae (the Old World flycatchers and chats). Males are strikingly dark blue while females are rich brown, making the species notably dimorphic. Its clear, melodious song often betrays its presence long before the bird is seen.
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low to the ground
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Nests are placed low, often in mossy banks or dense vegetation, with both sexes involved in territory defense. Outside breeding, it remains elusive and keeps within thick cover, rarely joining mixed flocks.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A clear, sweet series of fluted whistles and short phrases delivered from hidden perches. Songs carry well through mountain forest and are often the best clue to its presence.
