Black-and-Yellow Broadbill: The Bird That Looks Like a Manakin Doll

The Black-and-yellow Broadbill (Eurylaimus ochromalus) is one of the most striking birds from the tropical forests of Southeast Asia. With its contrasting black and yellow feathers and blue-green beak, this bird is often targeted by wildlife photographers. This bird is known as an active inhabitant of dense forest canopies but is difficult to find because of its shy nature.

The Black-and-yellow Broadbill has a small body, only about 15 cm long. Its head is predominantly black with bright yellow eye circles. Its back is black with striking yellow stripes, while the lower part of its body is pale pink. Its large blue beak is a distinctive feature, helping this bird eat insects and small fruits in its natural habitat.

This bird is found in lowland to mountainous forests in Southeast Asia, including in Malaysia, Thailand, Kalimantan, and Sumatra. Its favorite habitat is humid primary and secondary forests, although sometimes this bird is also found in plantations with dense vegetation.

The Black-and-yellow Broadbill is known as a social bird, often found in small groups or with other bird species. This bird makes a pouch-shaped nest that is hung on a tree branch. The nest is made of plant fibers and moss, and decorated with dry leaves for camouflage.

This broadbill species has a fairly distinctive call sound, in the form of a series of high-pitched notes. The interesting thing about this bird species is that in several areas in Indonesia, the sound of this bird is believed to be a sign that rain will fall.

As part of the tropical forest ecosystem, especially in Sumatra, the Black-and-yellow Broadbill has an important role in maintaining environmental balance, especially in controlling insects and spreading seeds. Its presence is also an indicator of forest health, so it is important to protect the habitat of this species.

What do you think, have you ever seen this species? If so, tell us in the comments column.