Brown Emutail

Bradypterus brunneus

Medium-sized, rich-brown bird with a weird spiky tail. Scarce and incredibly shy bird that is unlikely to be seen unless you’re expressly searching for it. Madagascar endemic that is found in eastern rainforest at middle and high elevations. Skulks in the understory, with a strong preference for dwarf bamboo. Loud song is a couple of short “swee” notes followed by a long, dry rattle. Far less likely to be seen than the common Madagascar Brush-Warbler. In case of any confusion, look for the Brown Emutail’s warmer brown coloration and wispy tail. 

Taxonomy

Scientific name
Bradypterus brunneus
Authority
(Sharpe, 1877)
Order
Passeriformes
Family
Locustellidae
Genus
Bradypterus

Range and habitat

Migration
Resident species

Conservation

Population trend
declining

Photos

Distribution

Bird Calls

Other Birds

Upcher's Warbler

Upcher's Warbler

Hippolais languida

A medium-sized, gray-brown warbler that looks very similar to other species. Note the rather stout bill and broad dark tail. Smaller and browner than Olive-tree Warbler and larger than Eastern Olivaceous Warbler. Wing panel is not as prominent as that of Olive-tree Warbler. Breeds on scrubby hillsides and river valleys; occasionally in flatter lowlands. During non-breeding season, found in a variety of wooded or brushy habitats. Sings from prominent perches—a repetitive, rapid mix of musical and scratchy phrases. Call is a harsh "chak."

Elliot's Pheasant

Elliot's Pheasant

Syrmaticus ellioti

Pale and stocky-looking pheasant of hill forests with dense undergrowth; generally scarce due to poaching throughout its range. Male is unmistakable: mostly brown above with a white belly, silvery head, bright red face, and a long pale gray tail with thick russet bands. Female is smaller and shorter-tailed with a faded version of the male’s patterning. Can be quite tame in areas where are protected and fed by rural communities.

Green Pheasant

Green Pheasant

Phasianus versicolor

Endemic to Japan and the national bird. The male is striking with bottle-green underparts, purplish-blue neck and head with red facial skin. Upperparts are intricately patterned brown and powder-gray with a long, pointed tail. Females are entirely brown with spotted and scalloped pattern. Inhabits fields, hedgerows, and brushy areas. Female could be confused with female copper pheasant although that species is more tied to forest. Male gives a far-carrying “ko-kyok!” followed by a noisy wing flutter. Flushes loudly with an explosion of wings and hoarse calls.

Start Your Bird Watching Journey

Identify a bird outdoors and keep the field guide close for your next observation.