Black-and-orange Flycatcher

The Black-and-orange Flycatcher, scientifically known as Ficedula nigrorufa, is a striking bird endemic to the central and southern Western Ghats, as well as the Nilgiris and Palni hill ranges in southern India. The male of the species boasts a bold black head and wings, while the female is characterized by dark brown plumage replacing the black and a conspicuous light eye-ring. These birds are typically observed either alone or in pairs.

Identification Tips

Upon sighting, one can identify the Black-and-orange Flycatcher by its distinctive coloration. The male's black head and wings contrast sharply with the rufous back, while the female's dark brown plumage and eye-ring are less pronounced. Juveniles are brownish orange with a whitish vent and abdomen, dark streaks on the head, and a pale ring around the eye. Their wings are bluish with a hint of brown, and their orange tail appears rather short.

Habitat

This species favors the high-elevation plateaus above 1,500 meters, where it thrives in areas rich in leaf litter and undergrowth within open shola grassland habitats.

Distribution

The Black-and-orange Flycatcher is found predominantly in the Nilgiris, Palani Hills, Biligiriranga Hills, and Kannan Devan Hills. Its range extends north to the Kudremukh National Park and Bababudan Hills, and south to the Ashambu Hills.

Behaviour

These birds are highly territorial and maintain their territories throughout the year. They exhibit a threat display involving bill pointing, tail fanning, wing opening, and producing "keet-keet" notes. The alarm call is a sharp "zit-zit." During the breeding season, they are particularly vocal, and their feeding activity peaks in the early morning and towards dusk.

Song & Calls

In the breeding season, the Black-and-orange Flycatcher's vocalizations include a repetitive "chee-ri-rirr" or a whistling "whee-chee-ree-rirr." They also produce an alarm call described as "zit-zit."

Breeding

The nest, constructed by the female, is a large, coarse, ball-like structure made from sedges, with a foundation of dry leaves and ferns. It typically contains two greyish speckled eggs. The nest is placed in a low bush or fern, usually at a height of 1 to 3 feet.

Diet and Feeding

These flycatchers feed on insects by flycatching low over the ground and picking insects from the ground. They are most efficient at capturing prey during the early morning and late afternoon.

Conservation status

The Black-and-orange Flycatcher is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it is not at immediate risk of widespread decline.