Dendrocitta frontalis
The Collared Treepie, *Dendrocitta frontalis*, is a striking medium-sized corvid, recognized by its slender build and distinctive coloration. Measuring approximately 30-38 cm in length, including its long, graduated tail which can account for more than half its body length, and weighing around 78-120 grams, it presents a sleek silhouette. Its most prominent field mark is a glossy black hood covering the head, face, and throat, sharply contrasting with a conspicuous white nuchal collar that gi...
This species primarily inhabits subtropical and tropical moist broadleaf forests, including evergreen and mixed deciduous types, often found in montane and submontane regions at elevations typically ranging from 600 to 2400 meters.
The Collared Treepie is an omnivorous species, primarily consuming a wide variety of insects, fruits (especially figs and berries), nectar, and occasionally small vertebrates like lizards, eggs, or nestlings, foraging predominantly in the tree canopy.
Collared Treepies are diurnal and highly arboreal birds, spending most of their time foraging and moving through the canopy, exhibiting remarkable agility. Their foraging strategy primarily involves gleaning insects and fruits from leaves, branches, and tree bark, often hanging upside down to acc...
The Collared Treepie's distribution spans a significant portion of the Himalayan foothills and Southeast Asia. Its breeding range extends from the western Himalayas in northern India (Uttaranchal, Himachal Pradesh), through Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan, and Northeast India (Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, ...
Least Concern
- The 'Dendrocitta' genus name literally means 'tree-magpie', highlighting their arboreal nature and resemblance to smaller magpies. - Despite being a corvid, they are incredibly acrobatic, often seen hanging upside down from branches while foraging for insects. - Their distinctive white 'collar'...