About Malacopteron magnirostre (Moore, 1854)
Size and Weight
The moustached babbler (Malacopteron magnirostre (Moore, 1854)) measures 18 cm (7.1 in) in length and weighs between 16–25 g (0.56–0.88 oz). Its upperparts are dull brown, while its underparts are whitish.
Plumage Details
The nominate race has an olive-brown crown, paired with a grey loral stripe and a grey moustachial stripe. This species occurs across Sundaland.
Geographic Range
The nominate race ranges from southern Myanmar and Thailand through Peninsular Malaysia to Sumatra, while the subspecies M. m. cinereocapilla is endemic to Borneo. It was formerly present in Singapore's forests, but is now considered likely extinct there.
Habitat Types
Its natural habitats include tropical moist primary lowland forests, peatswamp forest, secondary forest, logged forests, and old rubber plantations.
Elevation Range
It occurs up to 915 m (3,002 ft), and rarely reaches elevations as high as 1,200 m (3,900 ft).
Indicator Species Potential
Because this species prefers logged forest over primary forest, it has been suggested that it could be used as a habitat indicator.
