The variable limestone babbler is a species of bird in the family Pellorneidae. It is found in the limestone hills of northern and eastern Thailand northwest to southern Myanmar. Two other Gypsophila species, the Annam limestone babbler and the rufous limestone babbler were previously considered subspecies of crispiforns, but a 2020 study found them to be distinct species.
Region
Mainland Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs in the limestone hills and karst outcrops of northern and eastern Thailand extending northwest into southern Myanmar. It favors forested limestone ridges, rocky gullies, and scrubby edges around caves and cliffs. Birds remain close to the ground, weaving through boulders, root tangles, bamboo, and dense undergrowth. The species uses crevices and ledges for cover and nesting and tolerates a mosaic of evergreen, semi-evergreen, and deciduous habitats on limestone substrates.
Altitude Range
50–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This limestone specialist creeps over karst outcrops and leaf-litter, often keeping low and out of sight. A 2020 taxonomic study split the former limestone wren-babbler complex, recognizing the variable limestone babbler as distinct from the Annam and rufous limestone babblers. Its strong legs and slightly decurved bill are well-suited to probing crevices and scrambling over rugged rocks. Local populations can be affected by limestone quarrying, which reduces suitable habitat.
In Hà Nam Province, Vietnam
Temperament
skulking and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats low over the ground
Social Behavior
Typically found singly or in pairs that maintain year-round territories in karst habitats. Pairs forage close together and communicate with soft contact calls. Nests are placed low, often in rock crevices, ledges, or dense ground vegetation sheltered by limestone outcrops.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, ringing whistles that can accelerate or vary in pitch, often delivered from a concealed perch among rocks. Calls include sharp chips and mellow, piping notes used in duet-like exchanges between pair members.
Plumage
Warm brown to gray-brown upperparts with fine mottling; underparts buffy with dark scalloping on the throat and upper breast. Tail often shows a rufous tinge; wings are short and rounded. Subtle pale eyebrow and diffuse facial patterning give a soft, scaled look.
Diet
Feeds primarily on insects and other small invertebrates such as beetles, ants, termites, spiders, and larvae. It probes leaf litter, moss, and crevices in limestone rock to extract prey. Occasional small snails or other soft-bodied invertebrates may be taken when available.
Preferred Environment
Forages on and around limestone boulders, cliff bases, and rocky forest floors, often under bamboo or dense shrubs. Frequently works along shaded ravines, cave mouths, and vegetated ledges where moisture and detritus concentrate invertebrates.
