Rufous-backed Sibia
Leioptila annectens
栗背奇鹛
Introduction
A passerine bird in the family Leiothrichidae. Formerly classified in the genus Heterophasia, it is now the sole species in the genus Leioptila. Its range extends from the Himalayas to south-central Vietnam. Inhabits subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Description
A medium-sized songbird with distinctive rufous coloration on the back and wings. The plumage features contrasting patterns with darker wings and tail. The species exhibits the characteristic slender, slightly curved bill typical of the Leiothrichidae family.
Identification
Distinguished from similar sibia species by its prominent rufous upperparts. Separated from the related grey sibia by the warm brown back coloration and more rufous wing panels. The tail pattern and underpart coloration also provide key identification features in the field.
Distribution & Habitat
Distributed from the Himalayan region through northeastern India and Myanmar to south-central Vietnam. Occurs in suitable forested habitats throughout this range, utilizing both lowland and montane forest zones up to appropriate elevations for subtropical and tropical moist forest types.
Behavior & Ecology
Forages actively through the canopy and mid-story of forest habitats. Likely follows the typical diet of the family, consuming insects, fruits, and seeds. Social behavior includes pairs and small groups, particularly outside breeding season. Vocalizations include varied songs and calls typical of the Leiothrichidae.
Conservation
Not evaluated on the IUCN Red List based on available information. Population status across its range requires further assessment and monitoring.
Culture
No specific cultural information documented for this species.
Source: Wikipedia · CC BY-SA 3.0
Taxonomy
- Order
- Passeriformes
- Family
- Leiothrichidae
- Genus
- Leioptila
- eBird Code
- rubsib1
Subspecies (6)
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Leioptila annectens annectens
Sikkim to Bhutan, Assam, northwestern Myanmar, and western Yunnan
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Leioptila annectens davisoni
southern Myanmar and western Thailand
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Leioptila annectens eximia
southern Vietnam (Da Lat Plateau)
-
Leioptila annectens mixta
southeastern Myanmar to southwestern Yunnan, northern Thailand, northern Laos, and northwestern Tonkin
-
Leioptila annectens roundi
central Vietnam (Kon Tum Province)
-
Leioptila annectens saturata
eastern Myanmar and northwestern Thailand
Data Sources
Species description from Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Bird images and sounds sourced from GBIF, contributed by citizen scientists worldwide under Creative Commons licenses.
Taxonomy data from AviList 2025.