Calyptomena viridis
The Green Broadbill (Calyptomena viridis) is an exquisitely colored, medium-sized passerine, instantly recognizable by its brilliant emerald-green plumage. Measuring approximately 17 cm (6.7 inches) in length and weighing between 40-50 grams, this forest gem boasts a disproportionately large head, a very short tail, and a strikingly broad, flattened bill almost entirely obscured by a prominent tuft of feathers. Distinctive field marks include a small black spot behind each eye and a black pat...
Found primarily in lowland tropical and subtropical evergreen rainforests, including primary and mature secondary growth, often near streams. It typically inhabits the sub-canopy and mid-story layers from sea level up to approximately 1200 meters elevation.
Primarily frugivorous, its diet consists overwhelmingly of ripe fruits, especially figs, berries, and drupes. It supplements this with a small proportion of insects, such as caterpillars, grasshoppers, and beetles, acquired through gleaning.
Green Broadbills are generally shy and inconspicuous, often observed solitary or in pairs, though they may occasionally join small mixed-species foraging flocks. Primarily diurnal, they spend much of their day perched quietly amidst dense foliage, their vibrant green plumage providing remarkable ...
The Green Broadbill is a resident, non-migratory species primarily distributed throughout Southeast Asia. Its core range encompasses the Malay Peninsula, extending into southern Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia, and Singapore. Further east, robust populations are found across the large islands of Su...
Least Concern
- The Green Broadbill's scientific name, Calyptomena viridis, literally translates to "hidden mouth" (from Greek) and "green" (from Latin), perfectly describing its feather-obscured bill and vibrant color. - Despite its striking emerald plumage, it is notoriously difficult to spot in dense forest...