Dendrocitta vagabunda
The Rufous Treepie, *Dendrocitta vagabunda*, is a strikingly handsome and vocal member of the crow family (Corvidae) native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. This medium-sized corvid measures approximately 46-50 cm in length, with a significant portion, up to 30 cm, dedicated to its elegant, graduated tail, and weighs between 90-120g. Its distinctive plumage features a rufous-brown body, a contrasting greyish-pink head and neck, and striking black primary flight feathers accented...
Primarily inhabits open woodlands, scrublands, plantations, gardens, and rural areas, often found close to human habitation. It thrives in low to mid-elevations, adapting well to modified landscapes.
An omnivorous species, its diet consists of a wide variety including large insects (beetles, grasshoppers), fruits (berries, figs), nectar, seeds, small reptiles, eggs, nestlings, and carrion. It forages primarily by gleaning, probing, and hawking.
Rufous Treepies are diurnal birds, actively foraging during the day and typically roosting communally or in small family units in trees at night. Their foraging strategies are highly adaptable and agile; they glean insects from foliage, probe bark for hidden prey, and expertly hawk insects in fli...
The Rufous Treepie boasts a wide and stable breeding range that spans the entirety of the Indian subcontinent and extends into Southeast Asia. Its distribution stretches from parts of Pakistan, across India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh, eastward into Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia...
Least Concern
- The scientific name *vagabunda* means 'wandering' or 'vagrant,' likely referring to its widespread distribution or nomadic foraging behavior. - Despite being a corvid, known for their harsh calls, the Rufous Treepie possesses a surprisingly melodious and varied vocal repertoire, including flute...