Pericrocotus erythropygius
The White-bellied Minivet (Pericrocotus erythropygius) is a captivating member of the Cuckoo-shrike family (Campephagidae), a relatively small passerine measuring approximately 14-16 cm in length. This striking species is characterized by its glossy black upperparts in males and duller slate-grey in females, sharply contrasting with a pristine white belly. Distinctive field marks include bright rufous-orange patches on the flanks, rump, and a prominent blaze on the wings, along with a noticea...
Found in dry deciduous forests, open woodlands, thorny scrub, and acacia groves, typically at low to mid-elevations up to 1000 meters.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on a wide variety of insects such as caterpillars, beetles, bugs, ants, and flies, often supplemented by spiders.
The White-bellied Minivet is a diurnal and highly active insectivore, typically observed foraging in pairs or small family groups, occasionally joining mixed-species flocks outside the breeding season. They employ an agile foraging strategy, primarily gleaning insects from foliage and bark in the...
The White-bellied Minivet is widely distributed across the Indian subcontinent, encompassing much of peninsular India, parts of Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. Its breeding range extends throughout the drier regions of central and western India, north to parts of the Gangetic plain, a...
Least Concern
- The genus name "Pericrocotus" is derived from Greek words meaning "around" and "saffron-colored," referring to the bright plumage of many minivet species, though this one has a prominent white belly. - Despite their delicate appearance, White-bellied Minivets are highly agile fliers, adept at c...