The silver-eared mesia (Leiothrix argentauris) is a small songbird found in Southeast Asia, known for its olive and yellow plumage, black crown, and distinctive silver ear patches. It typically feeds on insects and fruit and breeds seasonally, with both parents involved in nesting and caring for the young.
Overview of the Silver-Eared Mesia
The silver-eared mesia, scientifically known as Leiothrix argentauris, is a small songbird found primarily in Southeast Asia. It belongs to the family Leiothrichidae, which includes laughingthrushes.
Physical Characteristics
- Size: Approximately 15 cm (6 inches) long.
- Coloration: Olive above, yellow below, with a black crown, silver ear patches, and some crimson on the tail.
Habitat and Distribution
The silver-eared mesia inhabits scrub and secondary jungle areas. It is found from Pakistan through the Indochinese peninsula. The species is generally resident but may migrate altitudinally in some regions, such as Nameri National Park in Assam, India.
Diet
The diet mainly consists of:
- Insects and their larvae (87% of diet)
- Fruits (97% of diet)
- Seeds (less common)
These birds often forage in groups of 6 to 30, searching for food in bushes and the forest canopy.
Breeding Behavior
- Breeding Season: November to August, starting later in April in northern areas.
- Nesting: Both parents build a deep cup-shaped nest using bamboo and leaves, typically placed near the ground or up to 2 meters high.
- Eggs: Clutches usually contain 2 to 5 eggs, which are incubated for 13 to 14 days. Chicks fledge after about 12 days.
Subspecies
There are seven recognized subspecies, with variations in plumage. Further research is needed to clarify their classification.
