The Grey-headed Canary Flycatcher, also known as Culicicapa ceylonensis, is a small bird found in tropical Asia, characterized by its grey head and yellow underparts. It typically inhabits forested areas and forages for insects, often in mixed-species flocks.
Overview
The grey-headed canary-flycatcher, scientifically known as Culicicapa ceylonensis, is a small bird found primarily in tropical Asia. It is recognized for its distinctive features, including a square crest, a grey hood, and bright yellow underparts.
Physical Description
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 12–13 cm (4.7–5.1 in) |
| Head | Squarish grey head |
| Belly | Canary yellow |
| Upperparts | Yellowish-green |
| Bill | Flat, triangular shape |
The sexes of this species are indistinguishable in plumage. They have a unique flat bill fringed with long bristles.
Habitat and Behavior
- Habitat: Prefers forested areas and often joins mixed-species foraging flocks.
- Diet: Insectivore, foraging for insects by making short flights from low perches.
- Breeding: Breeds from April to June in India. The female builds a cup-shaped nest using cobwebs and moss.
Subspecies
Several subspecies of the grey-headed canary-flycatcher are recognized, varying slightly in color and size:
| Subspecies | Range |
|---|---|
| C. c. ceylonensis | Southern India and Sri Lanka |
| C. c. calochrysea | Himalayas to Myanmar and Thailand |
| C. c. antioxantha | Myanmar to Malay Peninsula and Borneo |
| C. c. sejuncta | Flores and Lesser Sundas |
| C. c. connectens | Sumba, Lesser Sundas |
This bird was previously classified as an Old World flycatcher but is now placed in the family Stenostiridae, which is closely related to tits and penduline-tits.
