Asian Brown Flycatcher

 The Asian Brown Flycatcher (in Malay, Sambar Asia) is a small active bird with few identifying marks. 


As the ‘flycatcher’ name implies this is an insectivorous species. It breeds from the Himalayas to Japan. In the winter it migrates south. The wintering range is from Sri Lanka to Indonesia. As with many migratory birds the plumage becomes worn, changing from a fresh brown to a greyer appearance- making identification more difficult for the bird photographer!

On the other hand, in its northern breeding grounds it prefers broadleaf forest, whereas when it reaches tropical Malaysia it is often found in more open open habitats such as gardens and parks. It can be readily seen when it sallies from its exposed perch to catch flying insects. As with many other insectivores it cocks its tail and flicks its wings when perched, presumably to startle insects into revealing themselves.


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