Nilgiri Flycatcher

The Nilgiri flycatcher, Eumyias albicaudatus, is a small, long-tailed avian jewel that adorns the shola forests of southern India. Exhibiting a dark steely indigo blue plumage with hints of violet-blue on the forehead, this bird is a sight to behold. The male's darker lores set it apart from its verditer cousin, while the female presents a more subdued palette of dark brown and grey.

Identification Tips

To identify the Nilgiri flycatcher, look for its size of about 13 cm, and its distinctive coloration. The male is notably darker than the verditer flycatcher, lacking the stark contrast between the pale face and black lores. The two central tail feathers are blue, and the lateral ones are dark brown with indigo edges. The white at the base of the outer tail feathers is often concealed. Juveniles are brown with creamy spots, and both sexes have black bills and legs with dark brown irises.

Habitat

This species thrives in the higher altitude shola forests, a type of high-altitude stunted tropical montane forest.

Distribution

The Nilgiri flycatcher is endemic to the Western Ghats and Nilgiris, gracing the hills above 1200 meters in regions such as the Nilgiris, Palni Hills, Anaimalai Hills, Brahmagiri, Bababudan Hills, and Biligiriranga Hills.

Behaviour

True to its family, the Nilgiri flycatcher engages in sallies from perches to catch insects, a behavior typical of flycatchers. It is often observed foraging in the lower storey of forests, occasionally venturing to the canopy top. When perched, it frequently flicks its tail up and down.

Song & calls

The bird's song is a melodious series of warbling notes, reminiscent of the pied bushchat's call. Its common call is a soft nasal "eep," which it emits while perched upright.

Breeding

Breeding season spans from March to June, with a peak in April. Nests are constructed within cavities in earth banks or tree holes, sometimes utilizing man-made structures. The exterior is adorned with moss and lichens, while the interior is sparsely lined. Clutches typically consist of two to three creamy brown, mottled eggs.

Similar Species

The Nilgiri flycatcher can be confused with the verditer flycatcher, especially during the latter's winter migration to the Nilgiris. However, the verditer has distinct dark lores and a lighter blue hue, aiding in differentiation.

Diet and Feeding

Insectivorous by nature, the Nilgiri flycatcher's diet consists of various insects which it adeptly captures in flight.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List categorizes the Nilgiri flycatcher as Least Concern, indicating a stable population without immediate threats to its survival.