Animal's Details

Scientific Name
Orthotomus sutorius
Category
Aves
Created on Date
2024-10-11 13:21:15
Common Name
Tailor bird
Synonym(s)
Tailor bird
Family
Cisticolidae
Status
Live
Description

*Orthotomus sutorius*, commonly known as the common tailorbird, is a small, energetic passerine bird found across tropical Asia, particularly in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. This bird is well known for its unique nest-building behavior, where it "stitches" leaves together using plant fibers, silk, or spider webs, hence earning the name "tailorbird." Measuring about 10 to 14 cm (4 to 5.5 inches) in length, the common tailorbird has an olive-green back, pale underparts, and a reddish-brown crown. Its long, slender tail, often held upright, and its sharp, slightly curved beak make it easy to identify.


Tailorbirds are commonly found in gardens, shrublands, open forests, and even urban areas. They are highly adaptable and thrive near human habitation. These birds are insectivorous, feeding mainly on small insects, spiders, and caterpillars, which they forage from foliage while flitting actively between branches.


The common tailorbird is also known for its sharp, repetitive calls, which are often heard before the bird is seen due to its small size and preference for dense vegetation. During the breeding season, the bird constructs a pouch-like nest by stitching leaves together, creating a safe place to lay 3 to 5 eggs. Its fascinating nesting behavior and lively nature make it a well-known and admired bird across its range.