Phylloscopus castaniceps
The Chestnut-crowned Warbler (Phylloscopus castaniceps) is a small, vibrant leaf-warbler, instantly recognizable by its striking rufous-chestnut crown, from which it derives its name. Measuring a diminutive 9-11 cm in length and weighing a mere 4-8 grams, this active bird boasts a bright yellow throat and underparts that fade to white on the belly, contrasting beautifully with its olive-green upperparts. A prominent yellowish supercilium, dark eye-stripe, and often a pale wing-bar further aid...
Predominantly inhabits montane evergreen broadleaf and mixed forests, as well as rhododendron and oak scrub, typically at elevations ranging from 900 to 3,800 meters.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on small insects, their larvae, and spiders gleaned from foliage; occasionally consumes small berries or nectar.
This energetic warbler is primarily diurnal, actively foraging throughout the day and roosting concealed within dense foliage at night. It employs a restless foraging strategy, gleaning small insects and their larvae from the undersides of leaves and twigs, often hovering briefly or making short,...
The Chestnut-crowned Warbler boasts a wide distribution across the Asian montane regions, spanning the Himalayas and extending into Southeast Asia. Its breeding range encompasses the sub-Himalayan tracts of northern India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and south-central China (Yunnan, Sichuan, Guizh...
Least Concern
- The Chestnut-crowned Warbler has up to 12 recognized subspecies, each with subtle variations in plumage brightness and extent of yellow or chestnut coloration. - Despite its small size, it undertakes impressive altitudinal migrations, moving from high-altitude breeding grounds to lower elevatio...