Common Iora (Aegithina tiphia)
The Common Iora (Aegithina tiphia) is a small passerine bird belonging to the family Aegithinidae. It is found throughout South and Southeast Asia, including countries such as India, Nepal, Thailand, and Indonesia. The Common Iora inhabits a range of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and gardens, where it feeds on insects and small animals.
Physical Characteristics:
The Common Iora measures around 12-14 centimeters (4.7-5.5 inches) in length, with a wingspan of approximately 19-21 centimeters (7.5-8.3 inches). It has a distinctive yellow-green plumage, with a bright yellow belly and rump. The bird has a black mask around the eyes and a small, pointed bill. The legs and feet are gray. The male and female share similar coloration and markings, with little sexual dimorphism.
Diet:
The Common Iora primarily feeds on insects, such as grasshoppers, crickets, and beetles, as well as small animals, including lizards and spiders. The bird hunts by perching on a branch or other elevated perch, scanning the surrounding area for prey before darting down to catch it with its sharp bill.
Reproduction and Lifecycle:
The breeding season for the Common Iora typically occurs between March and June, depending on the location. These birds are monogamous and form pair bonds that can last for several breeding seasons. They build a small, cup-shaped nest in a tree or shrub, often using spider webs and other fine materials to bind the nest together.
The female lays 2 to 3 pale blue or greenish-blue eggs, which are incubated by both parents for around 14-15 days. After hatching, the chicks are fed and cared for by both parents until they fledge, or leave the nest, at about 12-14 days old. The young birds become fully independent within a few weeks of fledging.
Conservation Status:
The Common Iora is currently listed as a species of “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to its wide distribution and stable population. The species is not facing any major threats at present. However, habitat loss due to deforestation, urbanization, and other human activities could pose potential risks to the Common Iora population in the future. Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation and monitoring populations to ensure their long-term survival.