Copsychus stricklandii
The White-crowned Shama (Copsychus stricklandii) is a striking passerine bird endemic to the island of Borneo, renowned for its exquisite song and distinctive plumage. Measuring approximately 21-28 cm (8-11 inches) in length, including its long, graduated tail, this species is characterized by its glossy blue-black body, a pure white crown and nape, a contrasting rich chestnut belly, and a white rump with white outer tail feathers. Males exhibit a more intense, iridescent black plumage and br...
Found primarily in lowland and hill primary and mature secondary dipterocarp forests, often frequenting areas with dense undergrowth and bamboo thickets, from sea level up to 1500 meters, sometimes higher.
Primarily insectivorous, consuming a wide array of insects such as ants, beetles, crickets, and caterpillars, along with other invertebrates like spiders, mostly gleaned from the forest floor. Occasionally, small vertebrates or fruits are also taken.
White-crowned Shamas are active, often elusive birds, typically observed singly or in pairs. They are largely terrestrial, foraging on the forest floor by hopping and vigorously flicking leaves and debris with their bills or feet to uncover insects and other invertebrates. Their territorial behav...
The White-crowned Shama is endemic to the island of Borneo, where it is distributed across various lowland and hill forest regions. Its range encompasses the Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak, the independent nation of Brunei, and the Indonesian provinces of Kalimantan. It prefers primary and...
Near Threatened
- The White-crowned Shama is famed for having one of the most beautiful and complex songs in the avian world, often including impressive mimicry of other forest birds. - Its dazzling pure white crown is a key distinguishing feature, making it easily identifiable from other shama species which hav...