Species Profile
Rufous-tailed Tailorbird
Orthotomus sericeus
Quick Facts
Conservation
LCLeast ConcernLifespan
3 years
Length
10–13.5 cm
Weight
6–9 g
Wingspan
14–16 cm
Migration
Resident
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Appearance
The Rufous-tailed Tailorbird is a small bird with a bright chestnut hood and rufous tail. The upperparts are dark ashy grey, while its throat and underparts are creamy white, with a slight cinnamon wash on the breast and flanks. It has a relatively long, slightly curved bill and pinkish legs.
Males and females appear nearly identical, except females have black markings on their tail feathers. Juveniles have olive-brown upperparts with a subtle rufous crown, and their tails are duller with black markings. They also show a creamy underside with a pale yellow tinge.
Identification & Characteristics
Colors
- Primary
- Brown
- Secondary
- White
- Beak
- Grey
- Legs
- Pink
Attributes
Understanding Attributes
Rated 0–100 based on research and observation. A score of 50 is average across all bird species. These attributes are relative and don't necessarily indicate superiority.
Habitat & Distribution
Rufous-tailed Tailorbirds inhabit tropical and subtropical lowland forests, secondary growth, and forest edges across Southeast Asia. They are found in countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
These birds are year-round residents in their range, showing no significant seasonal movements. They adapt well to various forest types but prefer areas with dense understory vegetation.
Distribution
Diet
The Rufous-tailed Tailorbird primarily feeds on small insects and spiders. It forages by methodically searching through leaves and branches, often hanging upside down to reach prey on the undersides of foliage. Occasionally, it may also consume small berries or fruit.
Behaviour
Rufous-tailed Tailorbirds are agile and restless, constantly moving through dense vegetation in search of insects. They often forage in pairs or small family groups, gleaning prey from leaves and branches.
These birds are known for their bold and inquisitive nature, sometimes approaching human observers with curiosity.
Calls & Sounds
The Rufous-tailed Tailorbird has a loud, distinctive call often described as a repeated 'cheeup-cheeup-cheeup' or 'tee-tee-tee'.
During territorial disputes or when alarmed, they may produce a rapid series of harsh chattering sounds. Their vocalisations are an important tool for locating these often-hidden birds.
Nesting & Breeding
Breeding occurs year-round in most of their range, with peaks during the local dry season. Pairs form strong, monogamous bonds and defend their territories vigorously.
True to their name, these tailorbirds construct remarkable nests by 'sewing' large leaves together using plant fibres or spider silk. The nest is a deep cup lined with soft materials, usually hidden in dense foliage.
The female typically lays 2-3 eggs, which are white with reddish-brown spots. Both parents share incubation duties for about 12 days and continue to care for the young after hatching.
Conservation
While the Rufous-tailed Tailorbird is currently listed as Least Concern, it faces localised threats from habitat loss due to deforestation and urban development.
Conservation efforts focus on preserving its rainforest and woodland habitats across Southeast Asia.
Elevation
Up to 1,550 meters
Additional Details
- Predators:
- Main predators include small raptors, snakes, and arboreal mammals such as squirrels and civets. Nest predation by larger birds and monitor lizards is also a threat.
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for movement in the mid to lower levels of forest undergrowth
- Listen for their distinctive, high-pitched calls
- Observe their characteristic tail-cocking behaviour
- Be patient, as they often remain hidden in dense foliage
Did You Know?
- Rufous-tailed Tailorbirds can sew leaves together to build their nests using their beaks as needles.
- They have exceptionally strong legs for their size, allowing them to hang upside down while foraging.
- These birds play a role in pest control by consuming large numbers of insects in their habitats.
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