Black-thighed Falconet

Microhierax fringillarius

Family: Falcons and Caracaras · Status: Former resident and very rare visitor · Size: 15–17 cm · Conservation: Least Concern

Range

Breeds from extreme southern Myanmar and southern Thailand south through the Thai-Malay Peninsula to Sumatra, Java, Bali, and Borneo (except Sabah).

Identification

Adult has blackish crown, nape, and upperparts; whitish forehead, supercilium, throat, and breast; chestnut belly to vent; diagnostic black flanks and outer thighs. Female similar to male but slightly larger. Juvenile resembles adult but with chestnut supercilium and rufous fringes on the upperpart feathers when plumage is fresh.

Habitat

Forest and forest edge, including clearings; often found near streams and rivers.

Behaviour

Hunts from an exposed perch, darting out rapidly to snatch flying insects; will also take small birds. Perched birds frequently bob the tail.