MALAYSIAN RAIL BABBLER

My Super Duper Rare of The Year

20/03/2025

BURUNG SINTAR RIMBA

MALAYSIAN RAIL BABBLER (Eupetes macrocerus)

The Malayan Rail Babbler, also known as the Malaysian Rail-babbler (*Eupetes macrocerus*), is a fascinating and unique bird. It is a medium-sized, ground-dwelling songbird, measuring about 28 to 30 cm (11–12 inches) in length and weighing between 66 to 72 grams (2.3–2.5 ounces). Its appearance is striking, with a slender body, long legs, neck, and tail, and a long black bill. The plumage is predominantly brown, with a reddish forehead and crown, and a rich chestnut color on the chin, throat, and foreneck.

One of its most distinctive features is the black eyestripe extending from the bill to the side of the neck, bordered by a broad white supercilium. Additionally, it has a strip of bare blue skin on the side of its neck, which becomes visible during calls and displays, likely serving as a signaling feature in its dim forest-floor habitat.

This bird is known for its shy and reclusive nature, often found in dense lowland and foothill forests. It walks with a rail-like gait, jerking its head like a chicken, and prefers running to flying when disturbed. Its haunting whistle-like call adds to its mystique.

The Malayan Rail Babbler is native to the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, and Borneo, inhabiting primary forests. Unfortunately, its population is declining due to habitat loss, but it is still locally common in some areas. 

IUCN Redlist 2022: Near Threatened - NT

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