Microtarsus nieuwenhuisii
The Blue-wattled Bulbul (Microtarsus nieuwenhuisii) is a striking yet elusive passerine endemic to the island of Borneo. Measuring approximately 14-16 cm in length and weighing around 20-25 grams, its plumage is primarily glossy black, with a contrasting white patch on its undertail coverts. The most distinctive field mark and the source of its common name are the vivid, fleshy cobalt-blue wattles adorning the area around its eyes, a feature notably absent in juveniles. Taxonomically, it belo...
Primarily inhabits undisturbed lowland and submontane primary rainforests, occasionally venturing into mature secondary growth. Found from near sea level up to approximately 1,200 meters elevation.
Omnivorous, primarily consuming small fruits and berries, supplemented by a significant intake of insects and other small arthropods. It forages by gleaning from foliage and branches, and occasionally by making short aerial sallies.
This shy and elusive bulbul is typically observed alone or in pairs, sometimes joining mixed-species foraging flocks in the forest mid-story to canopy. It is diurnal, actively foraging for fruits and insects throughout the day. Foraging involves gleaning arthropods from foliage and branches, as w...
The Blue-wattled Bulbul is endemic to the island of Borneo, where it is found throughout its range in both Indonesian Kalimantan and Malaysian Sabah and Sarawak. Its distribution is somewhat patchy, preferring undisturbed primary and mature secondary lowland and submontane rainforests. There are ...
Near Threatened
- The Blue-wattled Bulbul is named for the distinctive pair of vibrant cobalt-blue fleshy wattles located around its eyes, a feature unique among most Asian bulbuls. - It is an endemic resident of the island of Borneo, making it a highly sought-after species for birders visiting the region. - Due...