Macronus ptilosus
The Fluffy-backed Tit-Babbler (Macronus ptilosus) is a captivating small passerine, typically measuring 12-14 cm in length and weighing approximately 12-16 grams. Its most striking feature, and the origin of its common name, is the distinctive patch of dense, cottony white-tipped plumage on its lower back, often partially concealed by its wings, serving as a key identification mark. Its general plumage is olive-brown on the upperparts, complemented by a rich rufous cap, greyish face, and pale...
This species primarily inhabits the undergrowth of lowland evergreen, peat swamp, and dense secondary forests, as well as bamboo thickets. It is typically found at elevations from sea level up to approximately 800 meters.
The diet of the Fluffy-backed Tit-Babbler consists predominantly of small invertebrates, including insects, beetles, ants, and spiders. They actively forage by gleaning them from leaves, twigs, and the forest floor.
Fluffy-backed Tit-Babblers are highly social birds, often observed foraging in active groups of 3-10 individuals, and frequently joining mixed-species flocks with other babblers, minivets, and fantails. They spend their days actively gleaning insects from foliage and bark in the lower forest stra...
The Fluffy-backed Tit-Babbler is a widespread resident species endemic to Southeast Asia. Its year-round range extends from southern Myanmar and peninsular Thailand, south through Peninsular Malaysia, Singapore, and across the Greater Sunda Islands, including Sumatra, Borneo (shared by Indonesia,...
Least Concern
- The Fluffy-backed Tit-Babbler's most distinctive feature, the 'fluffy back,' is actually a patch of specialized, white-tipped plumage that gives it a unique cottony appearance. - Despite its name, the 'tit' in Tit-Babbler refers to its small size and active foraging style, rather than a close r...