Collared Treepie

The Collared Treepie, known scientifically as Dendrocitta frontalis, is a member of the crow family, Corvidae. This bird, slightly more diminutive than the familiar Blue Jay, boasts a compact body and an elongated tail, characteristic of its group. Its plumage presents a striking contrast with a black forehead, face, and bib, while the chest, neck, and shoulders are adorned in a light silvery or bluish-grey hue. The back radiates a warm chestnut brown, extending to similar underparts, and the wing coverts are a pristine white. Completing the ensemble are the primaries and tail, which are a deep, resolute black.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the Collared Treepie, look for its distinctive black face and brow, which stand out against the lighter grey of its neck and chest. The white wing coverts are also a key feature, contrasting sharply with the black primaries. The long tail and overall size, smaller than a Blue Jay, will aid in distinguishing this species from its corvid relatives.

Habitat

The Collared Treepie is an inhabitant of hill forests, often found at quite high elevations, where it can be seen flitting among the trees.

Distribution

This species has a broad, though often very localized, range extending from the northeastern Indian Himalayas through Bangladesh, Nepal, and into Burma (Myanmar).

Behaviour

The Collared Treepie is known for its active foraging habits, often seen hawking for termites in flight. It is a versatile feeder, also partaking in fruits and berries, much like its treepie cousins.

Song & Calls

The vocal repertoire of the Collared Treepie is varied, containing metallic notes that resonate through the forest. Its chatter alarm call is reminiscent of other species within its family, providing a familiar sound to those acquainted with the Corvidae.

Breeding

Breeding season sees the construction of a small, neat nest, often strategically placed in bamboo clumps, small trees, or bushes at the edge of a clearing. The female typically lays a clutch of 3-5 eggs.

Similar Species

While the Collared Treepie shares its habitat with other treepies, its unique facial markings and the contrast between its black and silvery-grey plumage make it distinguishable from its relatives.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Collared Treepie is primarily composed of various invertebrates, with a particular penchant for termites caught mid-flight. It also supplements its diet with a selection of fruits and berries.

Conservation status

The Collared Treepie is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating that, for now, this species does not face any immediate threat of extinction.