Indian Blue Robin

The Indian blue robin (Larvivora brunnea) is a diminutive avian species, once thought to be a thrush but now classified among the Old World flycatchers of the family Muscicapidae. The male boasts a striking plumage with blue upperparts and rufous underparts, set off by a bright white supercilium and a contrasting black mask that extends down the neck. The female, more subdued in coloration, is olive brown above with a buff underside and a light eye-ring, while the young are cloaked in dark brown with buff spots.

Identification Tips

Adult males are identifiable by their blue upperparts, rufous underparts, and distinctive white supercilium and black mask. Females and juveniles are more cryptically colored, with females presenting an olive brown and buff palette and juveniles featuring a dark brown with buff spots.

Habitat

This species favors dense, dark forests with rich undergrowth and leaf litter, which provide ample cover and foraging opportunities.

Distribution

The Indian blue robin breeds in the Himalayan forests stretching from Eastern Afghanistan through Nepal, India, Myanmar, and Bangladesh. The subspecies wickhami is found in the Chin Hills of western Myanmar and is noted for its non-migratory behavior.

Behaviour

Insectivorous by nature, the Indian blue robin forages primarily on the ground, often seen skulking in the underbrush or hopping about while flicking its tail. They are migratory, with a breeding season from May to July, and exhibit a southward migration beginning in August. They are known to winter in the hill forests of the Western Ghats and Sri Lanka.

Song & Calls

The Indian blue robin is vocal in its wintering grounds, delivering a song composed of sharp whistles culminating in a rapid series of notes. They also emit a sharp, low clicking sound as an alarm call.

Breeding

The breeding season spans from May to July. The nest, a substantial cup of vegetation, is nestled on the ground between tree roots or in a depression, lined with roots, hair, and down. The female typically lays a clutch of 4 light blue eggs and is believed to be the sole incubator, though both parents contribute to feeding the young.

Similar Species

The Indian blue robin may be confused with the related bluethroat, which is similar in size but can be distinguished by its unique coloration and habitat preferences.

Diet and Feeding

This species is primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of ground-dwelling insects which it hunts in its undergrowth habitat.

Conservation status

The Indian blue robin is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating a stable population without significant immediate threats to its survival.