Indian Robin

The Indian robin, Copsychus fulicatus, is a small passerine bird that is part of the Muscicapidae family. Exhibiting sexual dimorphism, the males are distinguished by their striking black plumage with a white shoulder patch, while the females are more subdued in coloration, with brownish-grey feathers. The species is known for its long tail, which is characteristically held upright, revealing the chestnut undertail coverts.

Identification Tips

Males of the Indian robin can be identified by their black bodies and the white shoulder patch, which can vary in visibility. The northern subspecies have brownish upper plumage, which becomes progressively blacker as one moves southward. Females lack the white shoulder stripe and are greyish below. Juveniles resemble females but have a mottled throat.

Habitat

The Indian robin favors open scrub areas, often found in stony, grassy, and scrub forest habitats. It tends to avoid dense forests and regions with high rainfall.

Distribution

This bird is widespread across the Indian subcontinent, with its range extending through Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. It is a resident species, showing no migratory behavior.

Behaviour

The Indian robin is often seen running along the ground or perching on low thorny shrubs and rocks. Males are territorial and can be quite aggressive during the breeding season, engaging in displays and even attacking their own reflections.

Song & Calls

During the breeding season, males sing and perform displays to attract mates and deter rivals. Their songs vary, with specific tunes for courtship and territorial defense.

Breeding

Breeding season varies by region, typically coinciding with the onset of rains. Males display by spreading their tail feathers and strutting around females. Nests are built in a variety of locations, including tree hollows and man-made structures, and are often lined with animal hair and occasionally snakeskin. The usual clutch size is three to four eggs, with the female incubating and both parents feeding the chicks.

Similar Species

The Indian robin can be confused with the pied bushchat and the Oriental magpie-robin, but can be distinguished by its dark body and chestnut undertail coverts.

Diet and Feeding

Primarily insectivorous, the Indian robin also consumes frogs and lizards, especially when feeding young. It has been observed foraging late into the evening, catching insects attracted to artificial lights.

Conservation status

The Indian robin is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating that it currently faces no significant threats to its population.