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Nilgiri Flycatcher male or Eumyias albicaudatus

Code: Flycatcher
Skills: Nilgiri Wildlife

Project Description

The Nilgiri flycatcher (Eumyias albicaudatus) is a captivating bird found in the hills of southern India. Its range is quite restricted, and it was previously known as the Nilgiri verditer flycatcher due to its resemblance to the verditer flycatcher, a winter migrant to the Nilgiris. However, the Nilgiri flycatcher has distinct dark lores and a slightly different shade of blue. Notably, it sports two small white patches at the base of its tail.

Appearance:
- The Nilgiri flycatcher is approximately 13 cm (5.1 inches) long.
- Its plumage is dark steely indigo blue with violet-blue on the forehead and darker lores.
- Unlike the verditer flycatcher, it lacks strong contrast in the pale face and black lores.
- The female is duller, with dark brown upperparts and dark grey below.
- The central tail feathers are blue, while the lateral feathers are dark brown with indigo edges.
- The juvenile displays a scaly appearance on the throat and breast.
- Its bill and legs are black, and the iris is dark brown.
Distribution:
- The Nilgiri flycatcher is mainly found in the higher altitude shola forests of the Western Ghats and the Nilgiris.
- Its habitat includes the Nilgiris, Palni Hills, Anaimalai Hills, Brahmagiri, Bababudan Hills, and Biligiriranga Hills.
Behavior and Ecology:
- Like most flycatchers, it captures insects by making sallies and returning to its perch.
- It forages primarily in the lower storey but occasionally ventures to the top of the canopy.
- The song consists of rich warbling notes, somewhat resembling the call of the pied bushchat.
- When perched, it produces a soft nasal chipping “eep” while flicking its tail up and down.
- Breeding season: March to June (peak egg-laying in April).
- Nests are built in cavities in earth banks, tree holes, and even eaves of houses or woodwork on bridges.
- Typical clutch size: Two to three creamy brown eggs with dense mottling.