The Silver-Breasted Broadbill, a medium-sized species measuring 16 to 17 centimeters (6.3 to 6.7 inches) in length and weighing between 25 to 35 grams (0.9 to 1.2 ounces), presents an array of colors and patterns that elevate its allure. The nominate race of this species showcases a rust-colored head, an ash-grey forehead, and a striking black supercilium (stripe) extending over the eye. The breast and belly are adorned in pristine white, while the rump and upper wing coverts dazzle in vibrant rufous hues. The flight feathers, a captivating blend of blue and black, create a mesmerizing visual contrast, while the tail stands out in elegant black.
Intriguingly, there exists a subtle amount of sexual dimorphism in plumage. Female Silver-Breasted Broadbills exhibit a narrower silver band across their breast, distinguishing them from their male counterparts. Young birds, resembling adults yet sporting shorter wings and tails, carry a slightly darker plumage overall.
Spanning vast regions across Southeast Asia, including countries like Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, and Vietnam, these birds find their home in a variety of habitats. They prefer the lush surroundings of subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and also thrive in the equally enchanting realms of subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
The Silver-Breasted Broadbill is a discerning insectivore, with a menu comprising grasshoppers, mantises, caterpillars, larvae, and small land snails. Their feeding technique involves capturing insects mid-flight or gathering them from perches and foliage, showcasing their remarkable agility.
The breeding season of the Silver-Breasted Broadbill spans from March to August. These birds are monogamous and engage in cooperative nest-building. The nest, a bulky and unrefined structure crafted from twigs, is suspended from the tip of a tree branch, typically reaching an average height of two meters above the ground. Both male and female birds contribute to its construction. The clutch usually consists of 3 to 5 glossy, white, oval-shaped eggs. The parents jointly incubate the eggs for approximately 15 days, after which the hatchlings emerge. These young ones are born with the vulnerability of being blind, featherless, and utterly dependent on the care of both parents.
