Melanocichla calva
The Bare-headed Laughingthrush (*Melanocichla calva*) is a striking and unmistakable passerine endemic to the island of Borneo. This medium-sized babbler, measuring approximately 25-28 cm in length, is characterized by its glossy black to dark plum-colored body plumage which provides a dramatic contrast to its most distinctive feature: a completely featherless, bright yellow to orange head, including the crown, lores, and ear-coverts. Its sturdy bill is also yellowish, complementing its vibra...
Found primarily in primary lowland and montane evergreen forests, often favoring areas with limestone karst formations. Occurs from sea level up to elevations of around 1,700 meters, occasionally higher.
Feeds primarily on invertebrates such as beetles, ants, and various insect larvae, complemented by a diet of fruits and berries. Forages mainly by gleaning from the forest floor and low vegetation.
Typically observed in small, cohesive groups of 3-6 individuals, the Bare-headed Laughingthrush is a diurnal and rather social species, though often skulking in dense undergrowth. It employs a foraging strategy that involves gleaning invertebrates from the forest floor, rummaging through leaf lit...
The Bare-headed Laughingthrush is strictly endemic to the island of Borneo, where it is distributed across both Malaysian Borneo (Sarawak and Sabah) and Indonesian Borneo (Kalimantan), as well as Brunei Darussalam. Its presence is generally widespread throughout these regions, contingent upon the...
Least Concern
- Its scientific name, *calva*, is Latin for 'bald' or 'bare-headed', directly referencing its most distinctive feature. - It is one of Borneo's most iconic and unique endemic bird species. - The Bare-headed Laughingthrush is often described as 'unmistakable' due to its vibrant bare head contrast...