Scaly-crowned Babbler: The Shy Forest Explorer

Hi guys, this time I will post about the forest explorer bird, namely the Scaly-crowned Babbler (Malacopteron cinereum). This cinereum subspecies is one of the birds that inhabit the tropical forests of Sumatra that is rarely in the spotlight. This small bird can be found in various lowland habitats up to an altitude of around 1,200 meters, especially in dense primary and secondary forests.

The Scaly-crowned Babbler has a body size of around 14-16 cm with a characteristic scaly pattern on its crown. Its body color is predominantly olive brown, with the lower body being paler. Its beak is relatively long and curved, ideal for finding food among leaves and bark gaps.

Although it looks simple, the scaly pattern on its crown provides its own appeal, especially for bird watchers. Its voice is a soft, repetitive call, often the only clue to its presence in the midst of the dense forest.

This bird is known as a shy species and often moves in small groups. They prefer to explore the lower layers of the forest, looking for small insects, spiders, and caterpillars as their main food. Sometimes, they are seen joining mixed flocks of birds while hunting for food.

Scaly-crowned Babbler is widespread in Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, Kalimantan, and parts of Java. In Sumatra, this bird can be found in lowland rainforests such as in the Leuser area and its surroundings.

Hopefully this post can be important information for its readers.