Dull-blue Flycatcher

The Dull-blue Flycatcher, Eumyias sordidus, presents itself as a small passerine bird, a member of the flycatcher family Muscicapidae. This species, with its ashy blue plumage and a whitish belly, measures approximately 15 cm in length. A distinctive black patch can be found between its broad black bill and the eye, framed by brighter blue above and below. Both sexes share a similar appearance, though the female may appear slightly less vibrant.

Identification Tips

Adult Dull-blue Flycatchers can be identified by their ashy blue coloration and the contrasting black patch near the eye. Juveniles, however, are brown with heavy spotting on the head, back, wing-coverts, and breast in pale buff, and their flight feathers are edged with blue-grey. Observers should note the bird's size and shape, which is akin to that of the Spotted Flycatcher.

Habitat

This bird favors the deciduous mountain forests of central Sri Lanka, thriving in well-shaded areas and typically found at elevations above 600 meters, though it is less common below 900 meters.

Distribution

The Dull-blue Flycatcher is an endemic resident breeder to the central highlands of Sri Lanka, with Horton Plains National Park being one of its notable habitats.

Behaviour

Despite its preference for forest habitats, the Dull-blue Flycatcher is relatively easy to observe. It is an active bird, primarily feeding on flying insects, beetles, caterpillars, and other insects, but it will also consume berries.

Song & Calls

The Dull-blue Flycatcher is known for its loud and melodic song, which adds a musical backdrop to its native forested environments.

Breeding

The breeding season for this species peaks in March and April, with a possibility of a second brood later in the year. The nest is a cup-shaped, compact mass of moss, typically situated on a well-shaded rock ledge. The clutch usually consists of two or three brown-spotted pink eggs.

Similar Species

While similar in shape to the Spotted Flycatcher, the Dull-blue Flycatcher can be distinguished by its unique coloration and habitat preferences.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Dull-blue Flycatcher is composed mainly of flying insects, beetles, caterpillars, and other insects, supplemented by berries.

Conservation status

The Dull-blue Flycatcher is currently classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it faces threats that could lead to its vulnerability in the near future.