Marshall's iora facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Marshall's iora |
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| at Rann of Kutch | |
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Aegithina
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| Species: |
nigrolutea
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The Marshall's iora (Aegithina nigrolutea) is a small, colorful songbird. It is also known as the white-tailed iora because of its unique tail. This bird belongs to the Aegithina genus. You can find Marshall's iora in certain parts of India and Sri Lanka.
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About Marshall's Iora
For a long time, scientists debated if Marshall's iora was its own species. Some thought it was just a different version of the common iora (Aegithina tiphia). But now, most experts agree it is a distinct species.
How to Identify Marshall's Iora
Marshall's iora has several features that help tell it apart from other birds.
- It has shorter wings and a shorter tail compared to the common iora.
- The edges of its special wing feathers (called tertials) are white. These white edges meet broadly at the feather tips. In the common iora, these tips are black or only slightly white.
- Marshall's iora also has a smaller and shorter beak.
- Its songs and calls are different from the common iora's.
Where They Live
Marshall's iora is most commonly found in northwestern India. However, there are also a few confirmed sightings and specimens from southern India. More recently, it has also been found in Sri Lanka. Scientists are still learning about the exact areas where this bird lives.
Life and Habits
Not much is known about the daily life of Marshall's iora. However, it is thought to have a courtship display similar to the common iora. This is how the male birds try to attract a mate.
Reproduction
Marshall's iora usually breeds between June and August. They build their nests low down in bushes. Scientists believe these birds stay in the same area year-round, meaning they do not migrate.
Appearance Changes
Young Marshall's ioras and adult females are mostly green on their upper bodies. Their undersides are yellow, which can be duller in winter and brighter in spring. Young birds can be identified by their more pointed and narrower tail feathers.
Adult males of Marshall's iora have black and white tails all year. In some other iora species, males might have green tails. Before the breeding season, both male and female birds go through a partial molt, where they replace some of their feathers. This helps them get their bright breeding colors.
