The world of birds is incredibly diverse, with over 10,000 species soaring through the skies and perching in forests, wetlands, and backyards worldwide. One such bird that captures the attention of bird enthusiasts and conservationists alike is the Red-faced Liocichla (Liocichla phoenicea). In this article, we'll explore the taxonomy, physical features, habitat, diet, presence in Nepal, and an interesting point about this fascinating bird species.
Taxonomy
The Red-faced Liocichla belongs to the family Leiothrichidae, which includes around 133 species of Old World passerines (perching birds). Within its family, the Red-faced Liocichla is part of the genus Liocichla. Its scientific name, Liocichla phoenicea, gives a clue to its stunning appearance—with "phoenicea" alluding to its fiery red facial features.
Physical Features
The Red-faced Liocichla is a medium-sized bird with a distinctive red-colored face that stands out against its predominantly green body. Their size ranges from approximately 20 to 22 cm long. Other striking features include scarlet-red lower cheeks and throat patches, as well as black and white patterning on their wings. The combination of colors makes it an appealing subject for birdwatchers and photographers.
Habitat
Red-faced Liocichlas are typically found in thick undergrowth within moist broadleaf forests in the Eastern Himalayas. They prefer elevations between 1,500 m to 2,700 m above sea level but can occasionally be found at lower altitudes during the non-breeding season. Their habitat extends across India's Northeast states of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, Bhutan, China's southwestern region Yunnan Province, and Myanmar.
Diet
The diet of the Red-faced Liocichla consists mainly of insects, which they forage for in undergrowth, shrubs, and foliage. They may also occasionally eat small fruit. As opportunistic feeders, they remain active and explore their environment in search of food, making them a relatively easy sighting for bird watchers.
Presence in Nepal
In recent years, the Red-faced Liocichla has been documented in a few locations within Nepal. Notably, it was first observed in western Nepal's Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve in 2016, sparking excitement among ornithologists and adding to the country's rich biodiversity. The sighting has raised awareness about the importance of preserving the forest habitat that enables this spectacular bird species to thrive.
Interesting Point:
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Red-faced Liocichla is its song – a complex mix of whistles and chirps that are often delivered in a duet with other individuals. Their vocalizations can be heard not only during the breeding season but throughout the year, making their melodious calls one of their defining characteristics and a true delight for bird enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the Red-faced Liocichla is a captivating bird species with its unique appearance, diverse habitat range, and enchanting song. By understanding its taxonomy, physical features, habitat, diet, presence in Nepal, and more, we can appreciate this beautiful bird's place in our world's incredible biodiversity.