Ficedula superciliaris
The Ultramarine Flycatcher, *Ficedula superciliaris*, is a jewel of the Old World flycatcher family, celebrated for the male's striking cerulean plumage. This diminutive passerine measures approximately 10-12 cm in length with a weight typically ranging from 6 to 10 grams, making it one of the smaller *Ficedula* species. Males are instantly identifiable by their brilliant ultramarine blue upperparts, contrasting sharply with pure white underparts, a prominent white supercilium, and a distinct...
This species primarily inhabits moist deciduous, mixed, or coniferous montane forests, favoring areas with dense undergrowth and often found near streams or rivers. It typically occurs at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 meters during the breeding season.
The diet of the Ultramarine Flycatcher consists predominantly of small flying insects, including flies, beetles, moths, and caterpillars, supplemented by other small invertebrates. It forages primarily by aerial hawking and gleaning from vegetation.
Ultramarine Flycatchers are diurnal and highly active, spending their days meticulously foraging for insects. Their primary foraging strategy involves 'sallying' - making short, aerial flights from a perch to snatch flying insects, though they also glean prey from foliage. Males are highly territ...
The Ultramarine Flycatcher has an extensive breeding range spanning the Himalayas from northern Pakistan eastward through Kashmir, northern India, Nepal, Bhutan, and into southwestern and central China (Sichuan, Yunnan). It also breeds in northern Myanmar, northern Laos, and northern Vietnam, typ...
Least Concern
- The male's brilliant 'ultramarine' blue plumage was historically associated with the precious lapis lazuli pigment, hinting at its exquisite coloration. - Despite its small size, this species undertakes significant altitudinal and latitudinal migrations across the Himalayas and Southeast Asia. ...