Ptilocichla leucogrammica
The Bornean Wren-Babbler (*Ptilocichla leucogrammica*) is a small, enigmatic passerine bird endemic to the island of Borneo. Measuring approximately 14-15 cm in length and weighing 20-25 grams, this species is characterized by its predominantly dark olive-brown plumage. Its most distinctive field marks are the prominent white streaking on its head, throat, and breast, which give it a 'white-lined' appearance (reflected in its scientific name 'leucogrammica'). Finer white shaft streaks adorn i...
Primarily inhabits dense undergrowth of primary and mature secondary lowland and hill dipterocarp rainforests, typically found below 1,000 meters elevation.
Strictly insectivorous, feeding primarily on a variety of invertebrates such as ants, beetles, spiders, and their larvae, gleaned from the forest floor and decaying wood.
This diurnal species is notoriously secretive and spends most of its time on or very close to the forest floor, making it challenging to observe directly. Bornean Wren-Babblers forage singly or in pairs, meticulously rummaging through leaf litter, moss, and decaying wood, using their bills to fli...
The Bornean Wren-Babbler is endemic to the island of Borneo, with a widespread but highly localized distribution across suitable habitats. Its presence is recorded in the Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak, the sultanate of Brunei, and the Indonesian provinces of Kalimantan. This species is st...
Near Threatened
- Its scientific epithet 'leucogrammica' directly translates to 'white-lined', aptly describing its striking plumage pattern. - This bird is often considered an 'enigmatic' species, frequently heard but rarely seen by even seasoned ornithologists in its dense forest habitat. - Despite its common ...