West Kalimantan is home to some of the world’s most beautiful and diverse bird species. This Indonesian province is a paradise for birdwatchers, home to various unique and vibrant birds.
From the stunning and rare White-rumped Black Hornbill to the elegant Blue-crowned Pitta, West Kalimantan is a haven for all kinds of birds. Its lush forests, mangroves, and wetlands make it the perfect place to observe these fantastic birds in their natural habitat.
So come and explore the fascinating world of birds in West Kalimantan.
24 Birds to Watch in West Kalimantan
West Kalimantan is a province in Indonesia located on the island of Borneo. It is a place of rich biodiversity and natural beauty, especially for bird lovers. Many species of birds can be found in West Kalimantan, some of which are endemic to the region.
Here are 24 birds that you should watch out for if you ever visit West Kalimantan.
1. Yellow-vented Bulbul
The yellow-vented bulbul, or eastern yellow-vented bulbul, is a species of passerine bird belonging to the bulbul family. It is native to Southeast Asia, specifically Indochina and the Philippines.
It is often found in open habitats, such as grassland, scrubland, and farmlands, but not in dense forests. This species is a resident breeder, meaning it does not migrate but remains in its native habitat and breeds there.
It is a relatively common species across its range, although its population size may vary due to human activities. The yellow-vented bulbul is a medium-sized bird with white and black plumage, a yellow vent, and a black eye stripe.
Its diet consists of fruits, nectar, and insects. The species is known to be territorial, with males defending their territories from other males. Pairs are known to form monogamous relationships during the breeding season and will build nests in shrubs or trees.
The female is responsible for incubating the eggs and caring for the young, while the male helps by bringing food to the nest.
Overall, the yellow-vented bulbul is an essential species in its native range, playing a vital role in the ecosystem by controlling insect populations and dispersing seeds. It is an adaptable species, which is why it has been able to survive in a variety of open habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Pycnonotidae |
| Genus | Pycnonotus |
| Species | P. goiavier |
2. Bornean Ground Cuckoo
The Bornean ground cuckoo is an impressive bird species native to the island of Borneo. This species is a member of the Cuculidae family, which also includes common cuckoos, roadrunners, and anis.
This ground cuckoo, however, is much larger than its relatives and is found only in the Brunei, Malaysian, and Indonesian sections of Borneo.
It is a species that is highly dependent on humid forests for its habitat, and unfortunately, its habitat is being threatened by deforestation and other human activities.
As a result, the Bornean ground cuckoo is now listed as a threatened species, meaning that conservation efforts need to be taken to safeguard the species in the future.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Carpococcyx |
| Species | C. radiceus |
3. Crimson-headed Partridge
The crimson-headed partridge is an interesting species of bird from the Phasianidae family. This family includes pheasants, partridges, and francolins.
It was first described in 1879 by British ornithologist Richard Bowdler Sharpe, who classified it into its genus, Haematortyx. This means that the crimson-headed partridge is the only bird species in the Haematortyx genus.
The crimson-headed partridge is a medium-sized bird with striking crimson coloring on its head and neck. Its back and wings are grayish-brown, and its underside is a creamy white.
The partridge has a long, pointed tail and long legs, curved beaks, and dark eyes. They are generally seen in pairs or small flocks and inhabit dry, open areas with vegetation such as fields, scrub, and grassland.
The crimson-headed partridge is an omnivore and feeds on various foods, such as insects, seeds, and small fruits. It is an active bird that often runs and flies away from predators.
The partridge lays eggs, which are incubated by both male and female birds, in a nest on the ground have incubated. This bird species is not considered to be threatened, but its population is decreasing due to habitat loss.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Genus | Haematortyx |
| Species | H. sanguiniceps |
4. Rock Dove
The rock dove, also known as the rock pigeon or common pigeon, is a bird species belonging to the Columbidae family. In everyday language, it is commonly called the “pigeon.” The domestic pigeon is a descendant of this bird.
Domestic pigeons have escaped into the wild, resulting in larger populations of feral pigeons in many places around the globe. This has allowed the species to spread to places it would not have been able to reach on its own.
The rock dove is a highly adaptable species that has survived in many habitats. It is an integral part of many ecosystems, providing food for predators and a source of food for humans.
The species is also valued for its role in pigeon racing.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columba |
| Species | C. livia |
5. Little Cuckoo-dove
The little cuckoo-dove is a bird species belonging to the family Columbidae. It is reddish brown and can be found in Brunei, China, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam.
According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List of Endangered Species, this species is considered the most minor concern regarding its conservation status.
This means that the species is not facing extinction or a decline in population shortly. The little cuckoo-dove is a small bird, measuring up to just 34 centimeters long. It has a black bill and yellow legs.
Its back is reddish-brown, and its throat and breast are pale grey-brown. Its wings are dark grey with black spots. Its tail is long and rounded.
The little cuckoo-dove is usually found in forests and agricultural areas, including plantations, orchards, and sometimes even in urban areas. It feeds mainly on fruits, seeds, and small invertebrates such as insects.
It usually nests in low trees or shrubs, laying two white eggs in a small nest made of twigs and leaves.
Thanks to its wide range and increasing population, the little cuckoo-dove is currently listed as a species of most minor concern on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Endangered Species.
This means that the species is not at risk of becoming endangered shortly. However, it is still essential to be aware of this species’ potential threats, such as habitat loss due to deforestation and human activities.
Conservation efforts should be made to ensure that the population of the little cuckoo-dove remains healthy and stable.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Macropygia |
| Species | M. ruficeps |
6. Pink-necked Green Pigeon
The pink-necked green pigeon is a species of bird that belongs to the pigeon and dove family known as Columbidae. This bird species can be found in Southeast Asia and is quite common.
It is found in Myanmar, Vietnam, and the major islands of Indonesia and the Philippines. This bird species is of average size, usually ranging from almost 12 to 16 inches in length. They have a distinct coloration, with a bright green body and a pink neck.
The wings are usually a darker shade of green, and the tail is usually a light gray. The beak is yellow, and the eyes are bright yellow. The pink-necked green pigeon is generally seen in flocks but can also be seen alone or in pairs, searching for food or nesting in trees.
They eat a variety of fruits, seeds, and insects. They usually nest low in trees or on the ground, and the female lays two eggs.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Treron |
| Species | T. vernans |
7. Golden-naped Barbet
The golden-naped barbet is a species of bird found in Indonesia and Malaysia, particularly on the island of Borneo. It belongs to the family Megalaimidae, which consists of small to medium-sized birds native to South and Southeast Asia.
The golden-naped barbet has adapted to various habitats, including subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and subtropical or tropical moist montane forests. These habitats provide the bird with ample food sources, such as fruits, insects, and small animals.
The golden-naped barbet is endemic to Borneo, meaning it is only found on that island and nowhere else. The bird’s bright yellow head plumage and distinctive call make it easily recognizable.
The golden-naped barbet is an integral part of the local ecosystems, helping to disperse seeds and other organic matter throughout the forests. It is also a favored target of birdwatchers, who come to Borneo to observe its beauty and listen to its unique song.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Megalaimidae |
| Genus | Psilopogon |
| Species | P. pulcherrimus |
8. Bornean Frogmouth
The Bornean frogmouth is a species of bird found in the family Podargidae. It is native to the island of Borneo, located in Indonesia and Malaysia.
The species is fascinating to taxonomists because it is a subspecies of the short-tailed frogmouth, while others consider it a distance.
This debate highlights the need for further research and study of the species to determine its exact classification. The Bornean frogmouth is a medium-sized bird species, typically growing to around 20 cm.
It has a distinctive plumage of brown and cream feathers, a white throat, and yellow eyes. Its short bill is adapted to feed on a variety of insects, as well as some fruits and small vertebrates.
The species is typically found in lowland and hill forests, although it may also inhabit mangroves and other coastal habitats.
The Bornean frogmouth has faced several threats to its survival, including habitat destruction and degradation due to logging activities and agricultural expansion.
Additionally, the species is hunted for its feathers, which are prized by some cultures for use in traditional ceremonies. Despite these threats, the species is still relatively common and is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.
With continued conservation efforts, this species should be relatively secure.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Podargiformes |
| Family | Podargidae |
| Genus | Batrachostomus |
| Species | B. mixtus |
9. Bornean Peacock-pheasant
The Bornean peacock-pheasant is an extraordinary species of pheasant native to the lowland forests of Borneo. It is a medium-sized bird considered the rarest and least-known peacock pheasant worldwide.
This species is elusive and difficult to spot, and due to its rarity, not much is known about its habits and behaviors. The Bornean peacock-pheasant has a long, glossy, green plumage with a crest on its head that can be raised or lowered.
Its long tail has a pattern of black and white feathers, and its feet are yellow. It has a distinctive call consisting of whistles and growls. The Bornean peacock-pheasant feeds on insects, fruits, seeds, and small animals, such as lizards and frogs.
It is usually found near streams and rivers in the forest’s understory. The male is territorial and usually defends its territory against other males by displaying its colorful plumage and making loud calls.
The Bornean peacock-pheasant is threatened due to habitat destruction and hunting. It is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN Red List, and its population is in decline. Conservation efforts are needed to protect this unique and beautiful species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Genus | Polyplectron |
| Species | P. schleiermacheri |
10. Bulwer’s Pheasant
Bulwer’s pheasant is an endemic bird species native to the forests of Borneo, a large island in Southeast Asia. This species is part of the Phasianidae family, which includes other pheasants, partridges, and quails.
It is also known by several other names, such as Bulwer’s wattled pheasant, the wattled pheasant, and the white-tailed wattled pheasant. The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) has classified the Bulwer’s pheasant as Vulnerable due to its decreasing population.
This is mainly caused by destroying its natural habitat due to human activity. The Bulwer’s pheasant is a solitary species usually seen in pairs or small groups.
It is also a ground-dwelling bird, particularly vulnerable to threats like hunting and habitat loss. The Bulwer’s pheasant has a distinctive appearance, with its white tail and wattles. These wattles are unique to the species and can be found on both sexes.
The wattles are used mainly for communication, and they are often used to express emotions or attract a mate. The Bulwer’s pheasant also has a loud, distinctive call that can be heard from quite a distance away.
The Bulwer’s pheasant is an important species for conservation, and its protection is essential for the species’ future. Unfortunately, due to its vulnerable status, it is in danger of becoming extinct.
Therefore, conservation efforts must be taken to protect this species and its habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Genus | Lophura |
| Species | L. bulwark |
11. Ruddy Cuckoo-dove
The ruddy cuckoo-dove is a species of bird belonging to the family Columbidae. It is a medium-sized, reddish-brown bird in Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
This species is rated as the most minor concern on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Endangered Species, which is a good sign for its future.
This species has adapted to the tropical climates of its home range and can thrive in humid and warm temperatures.
The ruddy cuckoo-dove is a solitary bird, preferring to stay alone and forage for food. It prefers to feed on the ground, eating primarily fruits and tiny seeds. The ruddy cuckoo-dove is a social species, often seen in small flocks.
During the breeding season, pairs of these birds often build nests and lay eggs in them. The female is responsible for incubating the eggs and feeding the young chicks.
The male is responsible for protecting the nest from predators. The ruddy cuckoo-dove is an essential species in its native range, as it helps to disperse the seeds of plants, which helps to increase the diversity of the habitat.
Despite its importance, it is not yet threatened with extinction.
This is mainly due to its wide range and ability to adapt to different habitats. The International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Endangered Species has classified the ruddy cuckoo-dove as a species of most minor concern, meaning it is not currently at risk of extinction.
This is a positive sign of the future of this species, and it is hoped that its population will continue to thrive.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Macropygia |
| Species | M. emiliana |
12. Zebra Dove
The zebra dove is a species of bird belonging to the Columbidae family, native to Southeast Asia. It is a small bird with a long tail, and its plumage is predominantly brownish-grey with black-and-white barring.
It is also known as the barred ground dove or barred dove. The zebra dove has a unique pattern of black and white barring, which is quite distinctive. Its head and neck are greyish-brown, while its back and wings are barred with black-and-white stripes.
Its tail is long and has a white tip, and its underside is grey-buff. The zebra dove also has a bright yellow eye ring, which gives it a striking appearance. The zebra dove mainly feeds on grains, fruits, and insects.
It is a friendly bird and can often be found in flocks in open areas such as grassland and cultivated fields. It is also found in forests, parks, and gardens.
Breeding is when the dove builds its nest in shrubs and trees during the rainy season. The zebra dove is a popular pet due to its beautiful appearance and friendly nature. It is also kept for its song, which is a musical warbling.
This dove species is quite hardy and can adapt to various environments, making it a popular choice for aviaries and cage birds.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Geopelia |
| Species | G. striata |
13. Crested Fireback
The Bornean crested fireback is a species of pheasant native to the islands of Borneo and the Bangka Belitung Islands. It is the type species of the genus Lophura, meaning it is the species from which the genus was first described.
Before 2023, it was referred to as simply the crested fireback, as the Malayan fireback was thought to be the same species.
However, further research determined that the two species were different, and they have since been classified as separate species. The Bornean crested fireback is a medium-sized bird that inhabits forests and is easily recognizable due to its distinctive plumage.
It has a white crest on its head, a blackish-brown body, and a long tail with black and white stripes. It is an omnivore, feeding on insects, fruits, and grains. It is a relatively common species, although its population is declining due to deforestation and hunting.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Genus | Lophura |
| Species | L. ignita |
14. Spotted dove
The spotted dove is a small, long-tailed pigeon native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. It is a common breeding bird in these areas and has been introduced to many other parts of the world. As a result, it has established feral populations in these places.
The spotted dove is typically gray, with a white belly and a distinctive black and white spotted pattern on its wings and tail. It is a ground-dwelling species, usually found near human habitation and foraging for food on the ground.
The species also feeds on seeds, grains, fruits, and other small insects. It is a gregarious species, often found in flocks of up to 10 birds.
The spotted dove is an adaptable species known to breed in various habitats, from dense forests to open grasslands.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Spilopelia |
| Species | S. chinensis |
15. Metallic Pigeon
The metallic pigeon is a bird species in the Columbidae family, commonly known as a white-throated pigeon. It is a medium-sized bird, measuring up to 37 cm in length. The pigeon has a distinctive metallic sheen, ranging from blue-green to bronze, on its plumage.
The head is dark grey, and the wings and tail are black. The throat and chest are white, and the belly is paler. The metallic pigeon is found in tropical and subtropical forests of India and Southeast Asia.
It prefers open habitats such as scrublands, gardens, and cultivated areas but can also be found in forested areas. It feeds mainly on fruits and grains but will also consume insects, small reptiles, and other small animals.
It is usually seen in pairs or small flocks, and it is known to be quite vocal. The metallic pigeon is a popular gamebird and is also kept as a pet in some parts of the world.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columba |
| Species | C. vitiensis |
16. Bornean Barbet
The Bornean barbet is a species of bird from the Megalaimidae family. It is only found in Indonesia and Malaysia and is endemic to the island of Borneo. This means that it is not found anywhere else in the world.
Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and subtropical or tropical moist montane forests. These environments are generally humid and warm, with plenty of trees and vegetation for the birds to take shelter in and find food.
Lowland forests are those that are closer to sea level, while montane forests are located on the slopes of mountains. The Bornean barbet is adapted to living in these warm and humid environments and is an integral part of the fragile ecosystems of Borneo.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Megalaimidae |
| Genus | Psilopogon |
| Species | P. eximius |
17. Bornean Stubtail
The Bornean stubtail is a bird species belonging to the Cettiidae family of cettiid warblers. It is native to the island of Borneo, where it inhabits the forests and undergrowth of montane forests at elevations ranging from 750 to 3,150 meters.
This species is mainly found in the mountainous regions of Borneo, where they live and breed in the dense forest floor and undergrowth.
The Bornean stubtail prefers to forage in the shady and humid environments of the montane forests, where they feed on various insects and other small invertebrates.
It is an important species to the local ecosystem, as it helps to control insect populations and disperses seeds and other plant matter.
The Bornean stubtail is a threatened species due to habitat destruction and fragmentation caused by deforestation and the expansion of agricultural activities.
Therefore, we must conserve and protect these areas for the sake of the species and the local environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cettiidae |
| Genus | Urosphena |
| Species | U. whiteheadi |
18. Mountain Barbet
The mountain barbet is a species of bird found only on the Southeast Asian island of Borneo. It is a member of the family Megalaimidae, which comprises a variety of brightly colored birds.
This species is specially adapted to tropical environments and is usually found in lowland and montane forests. These habitats are typically moist and humid, providing the mountain barbet with a plentiful food supply.
In addition to its colorful feathers, the mountain barbet is also known for its impressive vocalizations. It produces a range of loud, chirping sounds that can be heard from far away.
The mountain barbet is an important species for maintaining the health of the forests of Borneo, as it plays a role in dispersing seeds that help to preserve the diverse flora of the island.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Megalaimidae |
| Genus | Psilopogon |
| Species | P. monticola |
19. Black Oriole
The black oriole is a species of bird belonging to the family Oriolidae. It is native to the island of Borneo and found only in the Sarawak region. This oriole species is not well known, and its range is minimal.
It is part of a larger clade of orioles, including the black-and-crimson, maroon, and silver ones. These species of orioles share the characteristics of having both black and red feathers in their plumage.
The black oriole is a unique and special species, with a very restricted range, that is part of a larger group of birds.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Oriolidae |
| Genus | Oriolus |
| Species | O. hosii |
20. Glossy Swiftlet
The glossy swiftlet is a species of swift belonging to the Apodidae family. This species is native to parts of Indonesia, New Guinea, the Bismarck Archipelago, and the Solomon Islands. It is mainly found on the Indonesian island of Sulawesi and eastwards from there.
The glossy swiftlet is a small bird, typically measuring about 14 cm in length and weighing just 10–13 g. It has a glossy blue-green back, wings, white throat, chin, and belly. Its tail is forked, and its legs and feet are dark grey.
The glossy swiftlet is known for its aerial feeding habits. It flies quickly and at low heights, often close to the ground, and uses its bill to snatch insects as it flies. Its diet mainly consists of small flies, midges, and insects.
It also sometimes feeds on nectar and fruit. The glossy swiftlet is known to inhabit the forest canopy and the sub-canopy layer. It is found in both primary and secondary forests, as well as in mangroves and other coastal habitats.
It is often seen flying over open fields and rice paddies. The glossy swiftlet is not considered to be threatened as its population is generally stable and it has a wide range. However, it is threatened by habitat loss due to deforestation and agricultural activities.
Conservation efforts are being undertaken to protect this species and its habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Apodidae |
| Genus | Collocalia |
| Species | C. esculenta |
21. Horsfield’s Bronze-Cuckoo
Horsfield’s bronze cuckoo is a small cuckoo species found in the family Cuculidae. It is generally relatively small, with an average size of around 22g, making it one of the smaller cuckoo species.
It is most easily identified by its striking green and bronze iridescent coloration on its back and incomplete brown barring from the neck to the tail. This unique coloring sets it apart from other species, making it an easy bird to spot and identify.
Additionally, its call is quite distinct, with a short and mellow whistle. This cuckoo species is found in the open woodlands of Southeast Asia, often in areas with plenty of tall trees and shrubs.
It is a solitary bird, typically found in pairs and tends to feed on various insects and small invertebrates. As a result, it is an essential species in its local ecosystem, helping to regulate insect populations.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Chrysococcyx |
| Species | C. basalis |
22. Little Green Pigeon
The little green pigeon is a species of bird belonging to the family Columbidae, one of the most common bird families in the world. It is in Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand.
Its natural habitat is in subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
This type of bird is typically smaller in size when compared to other species found in the genus Treron, which is a large genus of pigeons and doves. The little green pigeon is unique because its bright green body makes it identifiable.
Its wings and tail feathers are often a slightly darker shade of green. Its head is usually yellow or orange with small black spots. Its legs are typically pink or red.
The little green pigeon is an excellent addition to any forest, as it helps to create a vibrant and colorful ecosystem. This bird species feeds on leaves, seeds, and fruits from trees and shrubs.
They often feed in flocks and can be seen perched on branches or flying from tree to tree. Little green pigeons are known to be shy birds and prefer to stay away from humans.
They are also quite vocal and can be heard cooing during the day. The little green pigeon is a beautiful bird species and an excellent addition to any forest.
Although they may be shy around humans, they are essential to the ecosystem and benefit the environment. With the proper protection, this species can be enjoyed by future generations.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Treron |
| Species | T. olax |
23. Indian Cuckoo
The Indian cuckoo is a bird species in parts of the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. It is classified as part of the Cuculiformes order of birds, including various cuckoo species.
The range of the Indian cuckoo is quite extensive, covering much of the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia and extending east to Indonesia, north to China, and even as far as Russia.
The Indian cuckoo is found in India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. It is seen in various habitats, from grasslands and scrublands to forests and wetlands.
It is a migratory species, with some populations migrating further south during winter. The Indian cuckoo is a medium-sized bird with a length of about 30 cm and a wingspan of around 50 cm.
It is grayish-brown, with white and black barring on its wings and tail. Its call is a loud, melodic coo-coo-cuckoo, usually heard in the mornings and evenings. The Indian cuckoo is an omnivore, feeding on insects, small mammals, and fruits.
It is usually seen perched on tree branches or swooping down on its prey. It is a solitary bird and usually breeds during the summer months. The Indian cuckoo is an essential species in its range, helping to keep insect populations in check.
It is also appreciated for its beautiful song, often heard in rural areas. Despite being a common species, the Indian cuckoo is threatened by habitat destruction and fragmentation due to human activities.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Cuculus |
| Species | C. micropterus |
24. Chestnut-crested Yuhina
The chestnut-crested yuhina is an attractive bird species in the white-eye family Zosteropidae. It is native to the forests and woodlands of the Himalayan foothills in India and Nepal.
The chestnut-crested yuhina has been classified in the genus Staphida, including the Indochinese yuhina and the striated yuhina of mainland Asia.
At one time, all three of these species were thought to be a single species, but more recent research has shown that they are separate species. The chestnut-crested yuhina is a small songbird measuring around 10 cm in length.
It has a yellowish-green upper body with a bright chestnut-colored patch on its head. It has a yellow-tinged throat and black and white streaking on its wings and tail.
The chestnut-crested yuhina has a distinctive call, a “tchee-tchee-tchee” sound. The chestnut-crested yuhina is an omnivore, feeding primarily on fruits, nectar, and insects.
It is found in deciduous and evergreen forests, as well as in gardens and orchards. It is a social species, often seen in small flocks of up to 10 individuals.
Breeding pairs usually remain together for life. The chestnut-crested yuhina is an essential species for conserving the Himalayan forests, as it helps disperse seeds and pollinate flowers.
Unfortunately, this species is vulnerable to habitat loss due to deforestation and other human activities. As such, it is essential to preserve and protect its habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Zosteropidae |
| Genus | Staphida |
| Species | S. everetti |
Conclusion
The birds of West Kalimantan are a diverse and unique group of creatures. They are essential to the health of the local ecosystem and provide food for many species of animals.
They also provide essential services, such as pollinating flowers and dispersing seeds. Their presence helps to maintain the health of the forests and wetlands of the region, which in turn supports the livelihoods of local people.
Although their numbers are declining due to deforestation and other threats, it is essential to ensure that their habitats are protected so that they can continue to thrive in this part of the world.