Erythropitta arquata
The Blue-banded Pitta (Erythropitta arquata) is a stunningly vibrant, medium-sized passerine, measuring approximately 15-17 cm (6-7 inches) in length and weighing around 45-60 grams. Its striking appearance features a glossy black head, a chestnut-brown back, and a brilliant sky-blue breast band that contrasts sharply with its vivid crimson-red underparts and vent. A distinguishing field mark is this prominent blue band, which gives the species its common name, along with a pale buffish or wh...
This secretive species inhabits primary and mature secondary lowland to submontane rainforests, typically found at elevations ranging from near sea level up to 1,200 meters. They prefer dense undergrowth with ample leaf litter.
The Blue-banded Pitta primarily consumes terrestrial invertebrates, including earthworms, snails, beetles, ants, and other insects, which it unearths from the forest floor. They occasionally take small reptiles or amphibians.
The Blue-banded Pitta is primarily diurnal but extremely shy and cryptic, often remaining concealed in the dense undergrowth. It forages solitarily on the forest floor, meticulously flicking aside leaf litter with its strong bill and feet to uncover prey. When disturbed, it typically freezes or q...
The Blue-banded Pitta is an endemic resident of the island of Borneo, where it is distributed across both Malaysian Borneo (states of Sabah and Sarawak) and Indonesian Borneo (Kalimantan), as well as the small nation of Brunei Darussalam. Its presence is generally widespread throughout suitable l...
Least Concern
- Known as one of the "jewel pittas" due to its extraordinarily vibrant and iridescent plumage. - Despite its dazzling colors, it is notoriously difficult to spot in its natural rainforest habitat due to its secretive, ground-dwelling nature and tendency to freeze when disturbed. - It is endemic ...