Phylloscopus calciatilis
The Limestone Leaf Warbler (*Phylloscopus calciatilis*) is a small, enigmatic passerine only formally described in 2010, highlighting the ongoing avian discoveries in Southeast Asia. This diminutive species measures approximately 10-11 cm in length and weighs a mere 6-8 grams, embodying the typical 'leaf warbler' physique. Its plumage features olive-green upperparts, contrasting with paler, yellowish-white underparts, a distinctive bright yellow supercilium, and a dark eyestripe. While subtle...
Exclusively inhabits evergreen and semi-evergreen broadleaf forests found on limestone karst formations, typically at low to moderate elevations up to 1,000 meters.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of small arthropods including insects, larvae, and spiders. It forages by actively gleaning from foliage and small branches.
This diurnal species is an active and agile insectivore, constantly on the move, flitting through the canopy and understory of its specialized limestone habitat. It primarily employs a gleaning foraging strategy, plucking small insects and spiders from leaves, twigs, and bark, occasionally perfor...
The Limestone Leaf Warbler is endemic to specific regions of Southeast Asia, with its distribution centered on the karst limestone formations of Laos and Vietnam, and possibly extending into adjacent areas of southern China, particularly Guangxi. Its range is distinctly patchy, dictated by the av...
Least Concern
- The Limestone Leaf Warbler was only formally described by science in 2010, making it a relatively recent avian discovery. - Its scientific epithet, 'calciatilis', is derived from Latin, meaning 'dwelling on limestone,' a direct reference to its highly specific habitat. - The discovery of *P. ca...