Even if seen poorly, with its gaudy, cartoonish-looking profile and long tail, this square-headed bird is completely unmistakable.
Meet the Long-tailed broadbill
The long-tailed broadbill (Psarisomus dalhousiae), is a species of bird that is found in the Himalayas. Adult members of this species have a bright yellow throat and face, with another yellow patch behind each eye. The yellow on the face continues in a thin band right around their neck with another yellow patch below their throat. Sporting a black helmet-like cap on their head they have a blue patch on their crown with a smaller blue patch on the back of their neck. Feathers on the upper parts, belly, and top of the wings are bright green, while the underparts of the wings are a lighter shade of green.
Their tails are long and blue, though black underneath, they also have a strong, broad bill that is yellowish-green, with lighter edges.
Juveniles have a shorter tail, green head, and generally overall duller plumage when compared to adults.
The long-tailed broadbill inhabits a region in the Himalayas in countries such as Myanmar, into South-East Asia down into the Malay Peninsula to Sumatra and Borneo.
A resident, non-migratory species, long-tailed broadbills are more often than not found in broad-leaved forests. Preferring forests, streams, and creeds, tropical and subtropical lowland forests, and tropical, subtropical moist mountain forests.
Primarily insectivorous birds’ long-tailed broadbills can often be found foraging in forests for small insects. However, they may occasionally feed on frogs, berries, and some fruits.
During the breeding season a large pear-shaped nest is built, often attached to the branch of a tall tree. It consists mostly of fine roots, dead leaves, creepers, and moss. Up to 6 eggs are laid which both the male and female will incubate until hatched. They will both feed the chicks too until they are fully fledged.
According to the ICUN Red list of threatened species, the long-tailed broadbill is of least concern. Being fairly common throughout their range, they are found in ɱaпy national parks where they are protected.
Watch and listen to this bird right here in the video below: