Stachyridopsis ruficeps (Blyth, 1847)

Nomenclature and Classification

Stachyridopsis ruficeps, commonly known as the rufous-capped babbler, is a babbler species in the family Timaliidae.

Distribution Range

Its distribution spans from the Eastern Himalayas through northern Thailand, Laos, and eastern China, to Vietnam and Taiwan.

Habitat and Conservation Status

It inhabits temperate forests containing dense bushes or bamboo, and is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Plumage Characteristics

This bird has pale olive plumage with a bright rufous crown and nape.

Size and Weight

It measures 12 cm (4.7 in) in length and weighs between 7–12 g (0.25–0.42 oz).

Initial Taxonomic Proposal

In 1847, Edward Blyth proposed the scientific name Stachyris ruficeps for an olive-coloured babbler with a ferruginous crown and a white throat that was collected in Darjeeling.

Subsequent Taxonomic Revision

This species was later reclassified and placed into the genus Stachyridopsis.