Tawny-bellied Babbler

The Tawny-bellied Babbler, scientifically known as Dumetia hyperythra, is a diminutive bird, measuring a mere 13 centimeters from beak to tail tip. Its plumage is a study in contrasts: a dark brown adorns its upper parts, while a vibrant orange-buff graces its underparts. A rufous grey crown sits atop its head, and the bird's forehead is marked by stiff feathers. The tail, olive brown in color, is adorned with cross rays and is notably shorter at the edges.

Identification Tips

To identify the Tawny-bellied Babbler, look for its white throat, a feature present in adults from the peninsular regions of India and Sri Lanka. The Sri Lankan subspecies, phillipsi, is distinguished by a larger bill and paler underparts. In contrast, the population on Mount Abu exhibits a white throat with chestnut feathers on the crown, giving the appearance of a cap.

Habitat

This babbler favors the scrub and tall grasslands of its range, providing it with ample cover and foraging opportunities.

Distribution

The Tawny-bellied Babbler is a resident of north-central India, extending its range to the verdant hills of Sri Lanka, where it can be found up to elevations of 1500 meters.

Behaviour

The Tawny-bellied Babbler is a sociable creature, often seen foraging in small groups amidst low scrub forests. It constructs its nest within the dense foliage of low bushes, weaving a spherical structure from bamboo leaves or grasses. Breeding typically occurs during the rainy season, from May to September, with the birds raising three to four eggs per clutch. Notably sedentary, this babbler has a weak flight due to its short, rounded wings.

Song & Calls

The vocal repertoire of the Tawny-bellied Babbler includes a variety of cheeping, twittering, and harsh chattering notes, which are often heard as the bird moves through the underbrush.

Breeding

The breeding season of the Tawny-bellied Babbler coincides with the monsoon rains. Both parents share the responsibility of incubating the eggs, and in Sri Lanka, it is believed that they may raise more than one brood per season.

Diet and Feeding

Primarily insectivorous, the Tawny-bellied Babbler also partakes in the nectar of certain flowering trees, such as Bombax and Erythrina, supplementing its diet.

Conservation status

The Tawny-bellied Babbler is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating a stable population without immediate threats to its survival.