Actinodura morrisoniana
The Taiwan Barwing, *Actinodura morrisoniana*, is an enchanting passerine endemic to the mountainous regions of Taiwan, cherished by birders for its distinctive appearance and active demeanor. Measuring approximately 18-19 cm (7.1-7.5 inches) in length, this medium-sized babbler is characterized by its rufous-brown upperparts, a finely streaked head, and pale buffy underparts. Its most striking feature, lending it its common name, is the intricate dark barring across its flight feathers, crea...
This species primarily inhabits subtropical montane broadleaf and mixed forests, favoring dense undergrowth and bamboo thickets. It is typically found at mid to high elevations in Taiwan's central mountain range.
Its diet primarily consists of insects, including beetles, caterpillars, and other arthropods, supplemented by some plant matter such as berries and seeds. It forages by gleaning from foliage, probing bark, and searching leaf litter.
Taiwan Barwings are diurnal and highly active birds, often observed foraging vigorously in small, cohesive groups or as part of larger mixed-species flocks alongside other babblers. They are adept gleaners, methodically probing bark crevices and dense foliage for insects, moving acrobatically thr...
The Taiwan Barwing is strictly endemic to the island of Taiwan, where it is a resident species found exclusively within its central mountain ranges. Its distribution spans from the northern mountains southwards to the higher peaks, generally occupying elevations between 1,200 and 2,800 meters (ap...
Least Concern
- The Taiwan Barwing is one of Taiwan's treasured endemic bird species, found nowhere else in the world. - Its scientific name, *morrisoniana*, honors H. Morrison, a collector for the renowned ornithologist Robert Swinhoe. - The intricate 'barring' on its wings is a striking and distinctive field...