Green-backed Flycatcher feeding on fruits of Blue Mahang

posted in: Feeding-plants | 0

I had an opportunity to watch a male Green-backed Flycatcher (Ficedula elisae) foraging today. It was feeding on the fruits of the Blue Mahang or Macaranga heynei (formerly known as M. javanica), a common fruit source for migratory flycatchers but not noted in literature.

These fruits are taken mainly by fly-by snatches. At one point it appeared curious about me and flew in very close to have a look (no call playback used) – see below.

I had the impression, in some views (see above) that the throat was richer than the breast and wonder if this is part of some subtle breeding change? The composite below also shows the yellow rump seen in males.

Amar-Singh HSS (Dato’ Dr)
Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
15th February 2021

Location: Kledang-Sayong Forest Reserve, Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Habitat: Fringe of primary forest
Equipment: Equipment: Nikon D500 SLR with Nikon AF-S Nikkor 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR, handheld with Rode VideoMic Pro Plus Shotgun Microphone

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