At an altitude of 1,800m in the Cameron Highland’s Gunung Brinchang in Malaysia, the Silver-eared Mesias (Leiothrix argentauris tahanensis) are commonly seen and heard (left: adult female). These are highly social birds, often gathering in groups to sing their songs. As Dato’ Dr Amar-Singh HSS reported, “Their songs are a common part of the highland’s music.”
This recording (HERE), made on 14th May 2010, captures two calls, (1) the primary call which is repeated – described as “JEEoowit” and (2) a response call (to the one above) intercepting it – described as “pritpritprit…” Wells (2007) gives a full account of the vocalisation.
Amar often hears the full “JEEoowit” call repeated many times without interruptions or answers.
Check out the earlier post on the Silver-eared Mesia HERE.
Reference:
Wells, D.R., 2007. The birds of the Thai-Malay Peninsular. Vol. II, Passerines. Christopher Helm, London. 800 pp.
