Pitta nympha
The Fairy Pitta (Pitta nympha), a dazzling jewel of the forest floor, is a medium-sized passerine, typically measuring 16-19.5 cm (6.3-7.7 in) in length and weighing 42-160 grams. Its striking plumage features a vibrant green back, bright blue wing panels, a glossy black head with a buffy supercilium, and a warm chestnut crown. A prominent white patch is visible on its black wing, while its underparts transition from buff on the breast to a vivid crimson vent. There are no significant seasona...
This species primarily inhabits lowland to mid-elevation broadleaf evergreen and deciduous forests, often preferring areas with dense undergrowth, leaf litter, and proximity to streams or damp areas.
The Fairy Pitta's diet consists primarily of terrestrial invertebrates, including earthworms, slugs, snails, spiders, and a variety of insects such as beetles and their larvae, which they glean from the forest floor.
Fairy Pittas are largely solitary and secretive, spending most of their time on the forest floor, especially during the breeding season. They forage by methodically hopping and flipping leaf litter with their strong bills, searching for invertebrates. Males establish and vigorously defend breedin...
The Fairy Pitta is a long-distance migratory species with a distinct breeding and wintering range. Its breeding grounds are predominantly found in East Asia, including parts of Japan (primarily Kyushu, Shikoku, and Honshu, with some records further north), the Korean Peninsula, Taiwan, and southe...
Vulnerable
- Known as the “eight-colored bird” (八色鳥) in some Asian languages due to its spectacular array of plumage colors. - Despite their vibrant appearance, Fairy Pittas are incredibly shy and often heard more often than seen, earning them the nickname “jewels of the forest floor.” - Unlike most Pittas,...