Cyanoptila cyanomelana
The Blue-and-white Flycatcher, *Cyanoptila cyanomelana*, is a stunning migratory passerine belonging to the Old World flycatcher family, Muscicapidae. Males are instantly recognizable with their glossy, iridescent blue upperparts, striking black face and throat, and a stark white belly, contrasting sharply with black primaries and tail; they typically measure 16-17 cm in length and weigh 16-20g. Females, by contrast, exhibit a more subdued plumage, primarily brownish-grey above with a paler, ...
Breeds in deciduous and mixed forests, woodlands, parks, and gardens, often near streams or damp areas, at low to mid-elevations. Winters in similar forest types, including mangroves and secondary growth.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on flies, beetles, wasps, ants, and caterpillars. During winter, they may supplement their diet with small berries.
Diurnal and often secretive despite its brilliant plumage, the Blue-and-white Flycatcher primarily forages by sallying from a perch to snatch insects in mid-air or gleaning them from foliage. Males defend their breeding territories with persistent, melodious songs delivered from prominent perches...
The Blue-and-white Flycatcher has a wide distribution across East and Southeast Asia. Its breeding range encompasses Japan (Honshu, Kyushu, Shikoku, Hokkaido), the Korean Peninsula, northeastern China (Manchuria), and parts of the Russian Far East (Siberia, Sakhalin Island, Kuril Islands). These ...
Least Concern
- The scientific name *Cyanoptila cyanomelana* translates to 'blue-feathered blue-black,' accurately describing the male's striking plumage. - Despite its vivid colors, the male Blue-and-white Flycatcher can be surprisingly elusive, often remaining hidden in the forest canopy or undergrowth. - Th...