Green-backed Tailorbird Orthotomus chloronotus Scientific name definitions

13 cm; 6·2–15 g. Typical tailorbird with graduated tail, relatively long bill slightly decurved towards tip; distinctive within range. Adult has top of head down to lores and below eye level bright reddish chestnut; entire upperparts, including mantle, quite bright yellowish green; tail reddish brown, brighter greenish edging at base; malar region and chin whitish, rest of underparts somewhat darker than formerly conspecific O. castaneiceps; feathered portion of tibia rusty rufous; maxilla dark brown; mandible pale grey washed vinaceous; legs pale vinaceous grey; iris brown. Sexes similar. Juvenile presumed to have hood greenish, rather than rufous.

N & C Luzon (S to Bataan and Quezon Provinces), in N Philippines.

Food insects; no precise details available. Keeps very much to low undergrowth , hence more difficult to see than are some tailorbirds.

For differences from formerly conspecific O. castaneiceps, see Taxonomy. Song a loud, bubbly, rhythmic series of notes in two parts, which may be uttered continuously for a minute or more in varying sequences; first part is a rising “tuutt” and second part a monotone snappy rattle, “tuutt p-p-p-p-p”; calls not described.

Not globally threatened (Least Concern). Restricted-range species: confined to part of the Luzon EBA. Relatively common at most forested sites within the species’ range. Greatly favoured by its tolerance of, or even preference for, secondary growth. Can be very difficult to observe, but reveals presence by persistent singing; reasonably inquisitive, and responds well to “pishing” and “squeaking” methods of attracting it.