Phylloscopus magnirostris Blyth, 1843

Taxonomy and Basic Classification

The large-billed leaf warbler, with the scientific name Phylloscopus magnirostris, is a migratory leaf warbler species belonging to the family Phylloscopidae, and it occurs in Asia.

General Appearance and Key Plumage Markers

This species is a somewhat large leaf warbler, marked by a single wing bar and a prominent yellowish-white supercilium.

Distinguishing Morphological Features

Several features distinguish it from most other leaf warblers across its range: a contrasting broad dark eye stripe that extends behind the eye, a large darkish upper mandible, and a distinctive call.

Additional Plumage Traits and Similar Species

It also has a dark crown and greyish ear-coverts, and it can be misidentified as an Arctic warbler.

Breeding and Wintering Range

This warbler breeds in central China and the Himalayas, and winters in Sri Lanka, the Western Ghats, and connected hill ranges.

Habitat Preferences

It typically inhabits dense vegetation, though it has occasionally been observed in urban areas.

Detection Pattern

It is more frequently detected by its call than by sight.

Primary Distinctive Call

Its most distinctive call is a two-note dir-tee, where the second note is much higher in pitch.

Secondary Call Structure

Another call consists of a single faint note, followed by a series of paired notes that descend evenly in pitch.

Calling Behavior

Individuals call often, at regular intervals.