Cyornis superbus
The Bornean Blue Flycatcher, *Cyornis superbus*, is a dazzling avian jewel endemic to the island of Borneo, captivating birders with its brilliant plumage. Males are particularly striking, adorned with deep ultramarine blue upperparts, a contrasting black mask extending from the lores to just behind the eye, and a vibrant rufous-orange breast and belly that fades to white on the vent. They typically measure around 14-15 cm (5.5-5.9 inches) in length and weigh approximately 12-18 grams. Female...
This species primarily inhabits lower montane and hill forests, favoring dense undergrowth and mid-story vegetation along ridges and slopes. It is typically found at elevations ranging from 800 to 1800 meters above sea level.
Their diet consists almost exclusively of small invertebrates, including various insects such as beetles, ants, caterpillars, and flies, which they capture through aerial hawking and gleaning.
Bornean Blue Flycatchers are diurnal and generally observed singly or in pairs, actively foraging throughout the day. They employ a classic 'sally-and-snap' foraging technique, perching on a branch and darting out to catch flying insects in mid-air before returning to their original or a new perc...
The Bornean Blue Flycatcher is exclusively endemic to the island of Borneo, distributed across both Malaysian Borneo (Sabah and Sarawak) and Indonesian Borneo (Kalimantan), as well as the small nation of Brunei. It is a non-migratory resident species, found year-round within its preferred habitat...
Least Concern
- The Bornean Blue Flycatcher is entirely endemic to the island of Borneo, found nowhere else in the world. - Its scientific name, *Cyornis superbus*, translates roughly to 'superb blue bird', a fitting description for the male's dazzling plumage. - Unlike many migratory flycatchers, this species...