The Copsychus malabaricus (scientific name) or white-rumped shama is native to densely vegetated regions of India and South-East Asia. They are 9-11 inches in length. Males and females differ slightly, with the male being glossy black with a chestnut coloured belly and a white rump, and the female is more greyish-brown than black. Both have black beaks and pink feet. Insects are the main food in their diet. An average clutch-size has 4-5 eggs which are incubated for 12-15 days. The nest is built by the female alone, while the male keeps guard. They are popular as song-birds. The first recording of a bird’s song that was made was of this species. Its IUCN listing is the LEAST CONCERN.
White-rumped Shama
