Malaysian Pied-Fantail

A plump, small, long-legged nondescript brown songbird with paler underparts that vary from whitish to buffy in different parts of the range. Found singly or in pairs, on or near the ground, in understory of lowland and foothill forest and forest edges. Restricted to Sulawesi and the Togian and Butung islands, where it is the only babbler present. Long legs, plain overall appearance, and ground-loving habits make it readily identified within its small range. A vocal species with bold calls, including a musical “dewiyou-dee-dee” and repetitive cries of “KEER-KEER-KEER…”.

A small, common bird of forest and more open wooded areas from the foothills to the mountains. Has a yellow cheek and underparts, a black bib, cap, and wing, whitish blotches on the wing, and a black tail with a white tip and edge markings. The female is not as bright as the male. Unmistakable in range. Song consists of a medium-pitched whistle, followed by two high notes, repeated: “chuu chit-chit! chuu chit-chit! chuu.” Also gives nasal rasps typical of tits.

Breeding males are glossy black with purplish head and greenish sheen on body. Nonbreeding males have pale eyebrows and staring yellow eye. Females are plain dark brown and typically have dark eyes. Forages by walking on ground. Sometimes in mixed flocks with other blackbirds at feedlots. Also, walks along parking lots, golf courses, or roadsides. Females similar to Brown-headed Cowbird, but with longer, thinner bill and longer tail than cowbird.