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Tailorbird Facts

Written by Sunny

Modified & Updated: 23 Sep 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

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Are you intrigued by the wonders of nature and the fascinating creatures that inhabit our planet? If so, prepare to be enchanted by the incredible tailorbird! In this article, we will dive into the captivating world of these small yet remarkable birds, uncovering 19 intriguing tailorbird facts that will leave you in awe. From their exceptional sewing skills to their unique nesting habits, these avian wonders never fail to astonish. So, let’s embark on this enlightening journey and unravel the secrets of the tailorbird!

The Art of Stitching

The tailorbird derives its name from its exceptional talent for sewing. Using plant materials and spider silk, it intricately weaves leaves together to create a remarkable nest. This ingenious stitching technique helps to protect their eggs and provide a safe haven for their young.

A Kaleidoscope of Colors

Tailorbirds display a stunning array of colors, ranging from vibrant greens and yellows to subtle browns and grays. These vibrant hues allow them to blend seamlessly into the lush foliage of their natural habitats, making them difficult to spot.

A Tiny Marvel

Weighing just a few grams, tailorbirds are small wonders of nature. Their petite size allows them to navigate effortlessly through dense vegetation, enabling them to find food and build their nests with ease.

A Melodious Serenade

Despite their diminutive size, tailorbirds possess a powerful voice. Their melodious calls fill the air, echoing through the forest as they communicate with their fellow avian companions.

A Cosmopolitan Distribution

Tailorbirds can be found in various parts of the world, from Asia to Africa and Australia. With around 45 different species, these remarkable birds have managed to adapt to a wide range of environments and thrive in diverse ecosystems.

Master Architects

When it comes to nest-building , tailorbirds are true masters of their craft. They meticulously select the leaves, binding them together with silk-like threads. This extraordinary construction ensures their nests remain sturdy and secure.

Tailorbird Tailors

Unlike many bird species, tailorbirds are not satisfied with existing nesting locations. They prefer to tailor their nests according to their unique requirements, ensuring the perfect fit for their growing family.

Raising a Family

Tailorbirds are dedicated parents who invest significant time and effort into caring for their offspring. Both the male and female take turns incubating the eggs and feeding the hatchlings , fostering a strong family bond.

An Eye for Design

The intricate nests crafted by tailorbirds are not only functional but also visually appealing. Their artistic designs incorporate a variety of materials, resulting in aesthetically pleasing structures that blend seamlessly with their surroundings.

Hatching Secrets

Tailorbird eggs are incredibly small and delicate. Each clutch typically consists of two to four eggs, carefully safeguarded within the cozy confines of the nest until they are ready to hatch.

A Forager’s Feast

Tailorbirds have a diverse diet, feeding on a variety of insects, spiders, nectar , and even fruits. Their nimble beaks allow them to extract tasty morsels from the depths of flowers or catch insects in mid-air.

Nature’s Camouflage

Thanks to their exceptional ability to blend into their surroundings, tailorbirds remain hidden from predators. Their intricate nests and their natural coloring provide excellent camouflage, ensuring their safety and the protection of their young.

A Life of Exploration

Tailorbirds are constantly on the move, exploring their surroundings in search of food and suitable nesting sites. Their agile nature and boundless curiosity make them an absolute delight to observe in the wild.

Migratory Wonders

Several tailorbird species undertake impressive migratory journeys. These intrepid travelers navigate vast distances, relying on their instincts to guide them to their seasonal habitats, where they can find ample food and favorable conditions for breeding.

A Vocal Vocabulary

Tailorbirds possess a wide repertoire of vocalizations, each serving a specific purpose. From warning calls to courtship songs, their melodic notes are a vital means of communication within their communities.

Monogamous Relationships

Tailorbirds are known for their monogamous nature. Once they find a suitable partner, they form a lifelong bond, working together to build their nests, raise their young, and navigate the challenges of their environment.

Habitat Protectors

As inhabitants of various ecosystems, tailorbirds play an essential role in maintaining the balance of their habitats. Their presence ensures a healthy population of insects, thereby contributing to the overall ecological stability of their surroundings.

A Feathered Renaissance

The tailoring prowess of these remarkable birds has long fascinated humans. From ancient tales to modern works of art, tailorbirds have captured the imagination of poets, artists, and nature enthusiasts alike, inspiring awe and wonder.

An Emblem of Resourcefulness

Above all, the tailorbird stands as a testament to the boundless resourcefulness and ingenuity found in the natural world. Through their remarkable skills, they remind us of the incredible diversity and adaptability of life on Earth.

Now that you’ve delved into the fascinating world of tailorbirds, prepare to be amazed by the wonders of nature that surround us every day. These small birds with their extraordinary sewing talents and vibrant personalities are a true marvel to behold. Let the tailoring virtuosos inspire you to appreciate the intricate beauty that lies within the fabric of our world.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do tailorbirds create their nests.

Tailorbirds use plant materials and spider silk to weave leaves together, creating a nest that provides protection for their eggs and young.

Are tailorbirds found in specific regions?

Tailorbirds have a cosmopolitan distribution and can be found in various parts of the world, including Asia, Africa, and Australia.

How do tailorbirds camouflage themselves from predators?

Tailorbirds blend into their surroundings through the design of their nests and their natural coloring, ensuring they remain hidden from predators.

Are tailorbirds known for their singing abilities?

Yes, tailorbirds have a melodious voice and possess a wide repertoire of vocalizations used for communication within their communities.

Do tailorbirds migrate?

Certain species of tailorbirds undertake impressive migratory journeys, traveling long distances to find suitable habitats for breeding and feeding.

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• Passeriformes
• Cisticolidae

Common Tailorbird Orthotomus sutorius

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Identification

A common warblerlike bird with a green back, a reddish crown, and a long bill. It gets its name from the way in which it builds its nest by stitching leaves together. A ubiquitous inhabitant of parks, gardens, and wooded areas across South and Southeast Asia. Its loud “tuui-tuui…” and “whee-whee…” calls are often part of the sound of daily life in human habitation. Co-occurs with the very similar Dark-necked Tailorbird in NE India and SE Asia, but is separable by call, and by the lack of a rufous hind-crown, and yellow vent.

Exotic species

Exotic species flags differentiate locally introduced species from native species.

Naturalized : Exotic population is self-sustaining, breeding in the wild, persisting for many years, and not maintained through ongoing releases (including vagrants from Naturalized populations). These count in official eBird totals and, where applicable, have been accepted by regional bird records committee(s).

Provisional : Either: 1) member of exotic population that is breeding in the wild, self-propagating, and has persisted for multiple years, but not yet Naturalized; 2) rarity of uncertain provenance, with natural vagrancy or captive provenance both considered plausible. When applicable, eBird generally defers to bird records committees for records formally considered to be of "uncertain provenance". Provisional species count in official eBird totals.

Escapee : Exotic species known or suspected to be escaped or released, including those that have bred but don't yet fulfill the criteria for Provisional. Escapee exotics do not count in official eBird totals.

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20 facts about tailorbirds.

Written by Dylan Ebs

Modified & Updated: 06 Nov 2024

• Animals Facts
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Ever wondered about those tiny architects of the bird world, the tailorbirds? Tailorbirds are not your average backyard visitors. These little feathered creatures have a fascinating lifestyle that could easily put any seasoned craftsman to shame. Why, you ask? Well, their unique ability to sew leaves together to create nests is nothing short of remarkable. But there's more to these birds than just their needlework. From their vibrant calls to their intriguing mating rituals, tailorbirds lead lives full of surprises. Ready to get the lowdown on these avian wonders? Let's dive into the world of tailorbirds and uncover some facts that are sure to ruffle your feathers—in the best way possible!

Key Takeaways:

• Tailorbirds are unique songbirds that sew leaves together to create nests, showcasing their creativity and adaptability to different habitats, including urban areas with green spaces.
• Tailorbirds play a crucial role in ecosystems by controlling insect populations, promoting natural pest control, and benefiting agriculture and gardens. Conservation efforts are essential to protect these remarkable birds.

What Makes Tailorbirds Unique?

Tailorbirds, small songbirds found across tropical Asia, are renowned for their remarkable nest construction. Unlike many birds that gather materials to build nests, tailorbirds take a more creative approach. Tailorbirds stitch leaves together using plant fibers, spider silk, or even human hair. This sewing behavior gives them their name and sets them apart in the avian world.

• Tailorbirds use their sharp beaks as needles to pierce through leaves.
• They "sew" leaves together to create a cradle for their nests, ensuring safety and camouflage from predators .

The Habitat of Tailorbirds

Tailorbirds thrive in a variety of environments, from dense forests to urban gardens . Their adaptability to different habitats is key to their survival. They are often found in regions that offer abundant insect food and suitable nesting materials.

• These birds prefer humid, tropical climates but can also be found in dry, scrubby areas.
• Urban areas with green spaces, like parks and gardens, are becoming increasingly important for tailorbird populations.

Diet and Feeding Habits

Primarily insectivorous, tailorbirds have a diet that consists mostly of small insects and spiders. Their feeding habits play a crucial role in controlling insect populations, making them beneficial for the ecosystem .

• Tailorbirds forage for food in leaves and undergrowth, using their agility to catch prey .
• They occasionally eat seeds and fruits , diversifying their diet based on availability.

Reproduction and Nesting

The nesting process of tailorbirds is as fascinating as their sewing skills. After choosing the perfect leaf or leaves, the meticulous construction of their nest begins, showcasing their unique abilities .

• The female usually lays between 2 to 5 eggs per breeding season.
• Both parents are involved in feeding and protecting the nestlings until they are ready to fledge.

Vocalizations and Communication

Tailorbirds are not just skilled builders but also vocal performers. Their songs and calls are used for communication, including attracting mates and signaling danger.

• Their songs are complex and can vary significantly between species .
• Calls are often loud and include a variety of chirps, whistles, and trills.

Conservation Status

While many tailorbird species are currently not at risk, habitat destruction and climate change pose significant threats to their populations. Conservation efforts are essential to ensure their survival.

• Some species, like the Rufous-fronted Tailorbird, are considered near threatened due to habitat loss .
• Protecting natural habitats and promoting biodiversity are crucial steps in conserving tailorbird species.

Tailorbirds and Human Interaction

Tailorbirds, with their unique nesting behavior and pleasant songs, have captivated bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. Their presence in urban areas highlights the importance of green spaces for wildlife.

• Gardens with dense foliage can attract tailorbirds, providing them with nesting sites and food.
• Observing tailorbirds can offer insights into the adaptability and resilience of nature amidst urban development.

The Role of Tailorbirds in Ecosystems

As insectivores, tailorbirds play a vital role in controlling pest populations . Their presence indicates a healthy , balanced ecosystem.

• By consuming insects, they help in the natural pest control, benefiting agriculture and gardens.
• Their nesting habits also promote the growth of certain plant species, as they disperse seeds.

Tailorbirds: Masters of Camouflage

The ability to blend into their surroundings is crucial for tailorbirds. Their nests, often hidden among the leaves, are a testament to their mastery of camouflage .

• The color and shape of their nests make them nearly invisible to predators.
• This camouflage also protects their eggs and young from potential threats.

The Future of Tailorbirds

As we move forward, the conservation of tailorbirds and their habitats becomes increasingly important. Raising awareness and promoting conservation efforts can help ensure that these remarkable birds continue to thrive.

• Community involvement in conservation can make a significant difference in protecting tailorbirds.
• Research and monitoring of tailorbird populations are essential to understand their needs and challenges .

A Peek Behind the Feathers

Tailorbirds, with their remarkable sewing skills, are more than just feathered creatures; they're master craftsmen of the avian world . These tiny birds, armed with beaks as their needles, weave intricate nests that are a marvel of natural engineering. Their ability to adapt , using various materials to create a safe haven for their young, showcases nature's ingenuity. Beyond their architectural prowess, tailorbirds play a crucial role in ecosystems , contributing to the balance by acting as pest controllers. Their vibrant songs add melody to their habitats, enriching the biodiversity tapestry. Understanding and appreciating these birds opens up a window to the wonders of the natural world, reminding us of the intricate connections that sustain life on Earth. So, next time you hear a melodious chirp, remember, it might just be a tailorbird, the unsung artisan of the avian community.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Common tailorbirds are found across Asia. In city centres, they can be found in undergrowth, gardens and parks and even shrubberies. Other locations include wooded areas, forest edges and open farmlands. © suradech sribuanoy/ Shutterstock 

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Tailorbirds: The little birds that stitch their nests

The most intriguing quirk of the common tailorbird is perhaps that it creates its nest by sewing leaves together with its beak.

What is a common tailorbird?

Common tailorbirds, Orthotomus sutorius , are a species of songbirds in the Cisticolidae family. They are found across Asia.

These small birds reach around 10-14 centimetres long and weigh around 6-10 grams. They’re brightly coloured, with grey or green upper parts and chestnut on the head. The chicks start out dull green all over and transform once they reach adulthood.

Tailorbirds typically have a long tail that is held upright, and in the breeding season, males have a longer central tail. These birds form long-term bonds and remain in one location year-round.

While they are weak flyers, avoiding wide, open spaces, they are highly active creatures. They will flit between trees and shrubs, and sometimes hop on the ground to forage for insects. Tailorbirds will also feed on fruits, berries and tiny seeds, and sometimes drink nectar from flowers, which can leave them with a pollen-dusted head. 

Tailorbirds get their name from their ability to ‘sew’ their nests together. This leaf-sewing method can be found in several other species that belong to the Cisticolidae family. © gszenki/ Shutterstock

Tailorbirds’ ability to ‘sew’ their own homes is remarkable, but studying their nests can be a challenge even for the most proficient bird watcher .

Douglas Russell , Senior Curator of Birds at the Museum, says, ‘Nest architecture is hugely varied. We are only just beginning to unravel the complexities of the structures of nests to learn about the evolution of these animals and their behaviours.’

Like all bird nests, the primary objective of the tailorbird’s nest is to keep chicks safe and predators out. The species suffers high levels of predation, so camouflage is key, as is a low location, about a metre above ground level.

How does a tailorbird make its nest?

The female tailorbird carefully chooses a broad, strong, supple leaf which can provide good structural support once folded. A flimsy or dead leaf won’t do as it will most likely break with stitching or under the weight of the chicks.

A leaf in the middle of thick foliage is usually chosen to avoid the nest being seen, and at the end of a branch to reduce the possibility of a predator entering the nest.

The female wraps the leaf around herself to make sure it is the right size. If it isn’t, she adds another one or two leaves.

She then uses her feet to pull the leaf together and pierces a series of miniscule holes along the leaf’s edge, using her long, slender beak, which is shaped like a needle. The holes are so tiny that the leaf holds its shape, and it doesn’t go brown.

The female threads plant fibres, such as cotton or lint, or silk from insects, such as cobwebs or caterpillar cocoons, through the holes.

Common tailorbirds that live near human habitations have been known to steal man-made material such as cotton thread, wool and even fibres from carpets © Naim Beg/Shutterstock

The edges of the threads act like rivets, holding the leaf edges together. The stitches don’t unravel, thanks to the coarseness of the thread and elasticity of the leaf springing back to grip the thread passing through the holes. A single nest can contain between 150 and 200 stitches.

The nest even has a roof to provide shelter from the monsoon rains and offer shade from the Sun, formed by one or more pieces of leaves pulled down. This also secures and conceals the nest, preventing predators from getting in.

There may be several false starts - when the thread breaks or a leaf tears - but the female works tirelessly to repair the damage by adding more stitches or another leaf. If the damage is too severe, the nest is abandoned and a new one is made, using recycled material to save energy.

This process usually takes place in the morning or late afternoon, over the course of two to four days. All the work is done by the female but all the material is bought by the male - a test of fitness for both.

The plaintive cuckoo is a parasitic bird which likes to lay its own eggs in the common tailorbird’s nest. This specimen was discovered by John Crampton Wilkinson Kershaw in Macau, China, in 1904, while collecting the plaintive cuckoo specimens.

The nest is a deep cup that follows the natural look of the plant. The upper, shinier surface of the leaf faces outwards so there is no contrast in exterior. The nest faces the same direction that the leaves grow, so if the plant has a natural downward disposition, it stands vertically, and if the foliage stands out horizontally, so does the nest.

The nest is so skilfully put together that it is almost impossible to tell it apart from its surroundings without carefully observing the behaviour of the birds.

The real nest, however, lies within the sewn cup. The male collects and fills the cup with fine grass and lines the sides with other soft material such as animal hairs and plant downs.

‘There’s a whole range of materials birds can employ such as botanical and animal material,’ says Douglas. ‘The materials they utilise will offer different properties and birds often consciously choose those materials based on that.’

Tailorbirds often use feathers and fur to fill the leaf cup, because those materials tend to insulate the nest better than anything else. Green plant material is also used, which helps with thermoregulation and reduces the possibility of parasites such as lice. 

Tailorbirds nests are usually built low, at about a metre above ground level. This adult returns to its nests to feed its chicks. © nattaphol phromdecha/ Shutterstock

When do common tailorbirds lay their eggs?

Breeding season varies between species and can be year-round. The female lays between three and five pale blue eggs with brown flecks, usually one every morning, and the male feeds her while she incubates over 12 days.

Once the eggs hatch, both parents take part in feeding and raising the chicks, including sanitation. The parents initially swallow the faecal sac so as to avoid leaving the chicks alone and vulnerable to predation.

They eventually carry and drop the sacs some distance away to reduce the risk of disease and being exposed by sight and smell - a fine example of the evolution of nest hygiene within altricial passerines .

The chicks fledge at about three weeks and the nest is abandoned. The abandoned nest may be picked apart and reused by another common tailorbird couple, continuing the cycle of sophisticated nest creation.

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Introduction to Tailorbird

If you walk through a garden in India, you might spot an attractive bird nest sewn with the leaves of a plant. This nest will look unique since they are different from other bird’s nests. The tailorbird is the maker of this nest. Different species of tailorbirds make different kinds of the nest. They also use plant fiber, stolen household thread, insect silk, etc., to make the tailor bird nest. They make distinct loops knotted together on the outer regions of the nest. They devise several processes to give a distinct shape to their nests.

You will spot such tailorbirds mostly in South East Asia, India, Java, and Southern China. You will find this reddish-brown or greenish-yellow bird with its long tail pointing upwards. Many people study tailor bird nest making patterns, which is the unique feature of these birds. Therefore, if you spot such attractive bird nests in your garden or locality, you might find a tailorbird lurking around. 

Family and Species of Tailorbirds

Tailorbirds are small in size belonging to the order Passeriformes, family Sylviidae, and the genus Orthotomus. The tailorbirds are often considered in the same family as that of the Old World warblers. However, recently, several researchers point out that they are more suitable in the Family Cisticolidae. Although, one species of tailorbird, the mountain tailorbird, and its sister species, the rufous-headed tailorbird, is considered to be closer to the Old World warbler of the genus Cettia.

There are thirteen species of tailorbird that belong to the Cisticolidae family. The most prominent amongst them is the common tailorbird (Orthotomus sutorius). 

Geographical Distribution of the Common Tailor Bird

As stated earlier, tailorbirds are geographically distributed in South East Asia. The common tailor bird is found throughout the Indian subcontinent, Sri Lanka, Java, southern China, and the Malay Peninsula. The tropical climate of these regions suits the lifestyle of these tailorbirds.

The tailorbird shows high adaptability when choosing the spot for its nest. They can build their nest in flower beds, hedges, or climbing herbs and shrubs that are strong enough to hold their nest. However, it prefers dense vegetation so that its nests are not visible to its predators. However, it can also build its nest in bamboo woodlands or even semi-desert shrublands, provided that there is enough cover for its nest.

You will often find tailorbirds stealing fibers from doormats which they use for making their nests. Although tailorbirds make much effort to hide their nests, they often fall victim to cuckoo birds, who lay their eggs in the nests of a tailorbird. 

General Features of Tailorbird

The common tailorbird has a brightly colored coat. The upper parts of the body are bright green to yellow-green in color. The lower parts have a creamy hue. The body length of the common tailorbird is around 3.9 to 5.5 inches (10 to 14 centimeters). The average weight of the bird is 0.21 to 0.35 pounds (6 to 10 grams).

Their rounded wings are short. They also have strong legs to support the weight of the body while it is hanging onto its nest. It also has a long tail that is often pointed upwards. They resemble the wrens in terms of their tail. The tailor bird beak is sharp with a curved tip. The curved tip points towards the upper mandible. The crown of the bird is rufous.

Both the male and the female tailorbird resemble each other. However, the males develop long feathers in their central tails during the breeding season. Although they have bright feather colors, the juvenile birds appear dull. The dark patches present on its neck’s sides can be visualized when the bird is calling. These patches appear as dark gorget and are due to the presence of bare skin and dark pigments in those regions.

Fooding Habits of the Common Tailorbird

The common tailor bird resembles other warblers in their insectivorous feeding patterns. They make a loud cheer up-cherup sound while feeding, although the sound can change according to different population species. Such a bird call is called a disyllabic call. The birds keep on repeating this call.

Most of the time, the common tailorbird is found in pairs or solitude. They prefer to stay on the low branches or the ground. They feed on a variety of insects, like different kinds of bugs and beetles. They are more inclined to insects that get attracted to flowers. In particular, they favor mango inflorescences but are also attracted to the nectar of other flowers like Salmalia and Bombax. You might find a tailorbird with a golden yellow head; they are mainly the common variety with pollens covering their head.

Tailorbirds prefer to roost alone (during the non-breeding season) or with their partners (during the breeding season). Sometimes they have their juveniles sandwiched between them. They prefer roost sites on thin twigs that have covered around them. They prefer to stay near light and human habitation.

The Breeding Pattern of the Common Tailorbird

The common tailorbirds have an extended breeding season from March to December. However, their breeding peaks in the months of June to August, i.e., mainly during the monsoons. In Sri Lanka, they follow a different breeding season. However, they are found to breed throughout the year, their breeding peaks from March to May and then from August to September.

The tailorbird is named after the wonderful nests that they make. The tailor bird house is the most attractive feature of this bird. However, such nests are not unique only for all tailorbirds. Several species of Prinia warblers also make such wonderful nests.

The clutch size of a tailorbird is usually three eggs. The eggs have an incubation period of around 12 days. Both the male and the female tailorbird takes care of the young, including feeding and sanitation. The mortality rate of these young birds is very high due to the high risk of predation by crows, pheasants, cats, lizards, etc. The young birds take around 14 days to fledge. Either both the parents take part in incubation, or the males take care of the incubating females. The Plaintive Cuckoo is a common parasite in their nests.

The Nest Making Procedure of the Tailorbird

Most tailorbirds choose a spot in deep foliages so that they are not easy to detect. The nest of a tailor bird is lined with soft materials, mostly leaves. They make small punctures on the edges of the leaves so that it does not lead to browning. As the natural hue is maintained, the camouflage is restored. The bird can use two leaves to make the nest or a single leaf with its edges riveted together. The bird uses different techniques like riveting, sewing, matting, and lacing to bring the edges of the leaves.

Tailorbirds often use fibers that pass through the punctures in the form of sewing. They collect these fibers from trees, insect silk, and household items like doormats. They also use spiderwebs to make their nests. They apply different techniques to make a small cradle with these leaves. They introduce other materials in their nests to make them look safe.

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The Behavior of the Common Tailorbird

The common tailorbird is also famous for its distinctive behavior according to the situations it faces. Generally, it makes a tireless effort to look for food. It is commonly seen hopping across hedges, bushes, trees, and even grounds to search for tiny insects. They also search for flowers that produce nectars. During the process, they have their tail pointing high above and often wagging in a sidewise direction.

The flight of the bird is weak and erratic. Such a flight becomes an easy target for larger predators, especially if they have the ability to fly. It generally flies from one hideous patch to another, thus avoiding any open areas. Such behavior is required to avoid any flying predators. However, the common tailorbird does not consider humans as predators. They are surprisingly tame when they have their nests near human settlements.

The tailorbird always maintains a long-standing relationship with its partners. They prefer to live together in a static territory for the entire year. The common mode of communication between these partners is a long, monotonous, loud call: cheap cheap. However, they have a different call when they sense any danger, like the sighting of the common small sparrowhawk. Then they make alarm pit-pit calls for the entire period when the danger looms above.

The Tailorbird that Does Not Prefer to Live Near Humans

One of the two tailorbird species found in eastern Africa is the long-billed tailorbird (Orthotomus moreaui). This is a rare species that displays similar nest-building and designing skills. They are also similar in shape and size to other tailorbirds. However, this bird is rarely found near human habitats and prefers to live at altitudes around 2500 to 3500 meters, especially in some restricted regions of the Njesi Plateau and the Usambara Mountains in Tanzania.

Tailorbird is a unique bird that knows how to stitch. The bird got its name from the special talent of stitching leaves of plants together to build its nest. Many of the birds sewn their nests with the leaves of the plant in garden-like places. Where it's hard to find their nest in the dense leafy surrounding. These birds have different species and every species builds its nest differently. These birds use many other materials with leaves to build their nest like waste household threads, plant fiber, insect silk, etc. These birds are masters in building their nests, they use several techniques like making distinct loops knotted together to make the outer region of the nest and use several processes to give a distinct shape to their nests. 

The tailorbirds are mostly found in the region of Southeast Asia in countries like India, China, and Java. The bird looked greenish-yellow or reddish-brown in color with a long tail pointing upwards. These birds have the interest of many researchers who study the unique technique of making nests. 

Tailorbird - Species, and Family

The family to which the tailor bird belongs is Sylviidae. The genus of tailorbird is Orthotomus. Tailorbirds are small in size from the order Passeriformes. The tailorbirds are quite considered to be in the same family of the Old World warblers are from. The tailorbird of the mountainous region and some of its sister species are of rufous-headed tailorbird and most of them are considered in the family of Old World warbler, also from the genus Cettia. The most commonly known species of tailorbird is of the family Cisticolidae and followed by other thirteen species of the respective bird. 

Tailorbird - Geographical Distribution  

The geographical location of the tailorbird is around South East Asia. The most common species of the tailorbird is found near the Indian subcontinent like  Southern China, Sri Lanka, and Java, some are in the Malay Peninsula. The species of tailorbird suits tropical climate subsequent to their lifestyle. 

These birds are highly adaptable when it comes to building their nests and choosing their spot. The tailorbird likes to build their nest in hedges climbing herbs, shrubs, and flower beds, considering the strength to hold their nest. They also consider the density of the vegetation as they want the density to be high in that the nests are not visible to their predators. These birds also use bamboo woodlands and even some of the tailorbirds choose semi-desert shrublands according to the availability of density possible to hide their nests.

The tailorbird is a native species to southeast Asia, especially in India, Sri Lanka, Java, and southern China. It is a small bird favoring tropical climates and is often found near human households. The most attractive feature of this bird is the unique nests that they make. They use the leaves of the tree, fabrics collected from households, insect silk, etc., to make their nests. They perform different sewing, riveting, matting, and lactating to make their nests. Both the parents take part in the development and care of the offspring. They are largely insectivorous, feeding on small insects and bugs. However, they also feed on nectar from different flowers.

FAQs on Tailorbird

1. What is the unique quality of a tailorbird and why is it called a tailorbird?

The tailorbird is a unique bird that knows to stitch. These birds have different species and every species builds its nest differently. Many of the birds sewn their nests with the leaves of the plant in garden-like places. Where it's hard to find their nest in the dense leafy surrounding. The bird got its name from the special talent of stitching leaves of plants together to build its nest.

2. What are the different things that a tailor bird uses to make its nest?

The tailor uses many small things to build their nest. They use several techniques like making distinct loops knotted together to make the outer region of the nest and use several processes to give a distinct shape to their nests. These birds use many other materials with leaves to build their nest like waste household threads, plant fiber, insect silk, etc. These birds are masters in building their nests.

3. Why do the researcher and their interest in the tailorbird species?

The tailorbirds have the interest of many researchers who study the unique technique of making nests because of the technique they used to build their nests. The special birds build a hanging nest, which is very rare and not possible for other birds to do so. These birds use a special technique of flying because they build their nest while flying. This is why researchers take interest in this special species of birds.

4. Where do these birds are found and how do they look?

The tailorbirds are mostly found in the region of Southeast Asia in countries like India, China, and Java. The tailorbird likes to build their nest in hedges climbing herbs, shrubs, and flower beds, considering the strength to hold their nest. These birds are highly adaptable when it comes to building their nests and choosing their spot. The bird looked greenish-yellow or reddish-brown in color with a long tail pointing upwards. 

5. Which family and species do the tailor birds belong to?

The family to which the tailor bird belongs is Sylviidae. The tailorbirds are quite considered to be in the same family of the Old World warblers are from. The genus of tailorbird is Orthotomus. Tailorbirds are small in size from the order Passeriformes. The most commonly known species of tailorbird is of the family Cisticolidae and followed by other thirteen species of the respective bird. 

• Bird / Cisticolidae / Passeriformes

Common Tailorbird

by NSSB Catalog · February 5, 2017

টুনটুনি / দর্জি / টুনি/ টোনা

Orthotomus sutorius,  (Pennant, 1769)

• Kawsar Mostafa
• Maroof Rana
• A N M Aminoor Rahman
• Masud Mushfiq Zaman
• Ikbal H. Babu
• Shaiful Islam Sourav

Description

Common tailorbird is a small and restless bird. It has bright olive-green upperparts and whitish underparts. Its thighs are rufous and has short and rounded wings. There are two elongated pinpointed feathers in the tail (breeding male). Center of the crown on the head is rufous and face is white. There are black patches on the neck. It has a long and down curved bill. Pale brown eyes and pinkish legs and feet. Both sexes are similar but in breeding plumage male possesses a long central tail feathers and less rufous on forehead for female.

Size and weight:  Length is about 10 cm to 13 cm including the tail.The weight of adult is between 5 gm to 15 gm.

Behavior:  It is very active when foraging into vegetation of woodland, in search of insects. They are usually shy, silent during non-breeding period. Male sings lustily during breeding season from favorite tree-top or post, mostly early mornings and late afternoon. It flicks its tail continuously and usually seen in pairs.

Food:  Mainly insects and larvae. Also consumes small fruits, berries and flower nectar from  Salmalia  and  Erythrina.

Habitat:  It lives in deciduous forests, scrub lands, mangroves, open woodlands and gardens. Usually nest is a pad of grass, rootlets, hairs etc. in a hole in old walls, tree-trunk or bough. It got its name by the way it makes its nest, sewing leaves together with spider webs or fine grass or hair.

Call:  A rapid series of monotonous and repeated  “swee-ee” and harsh “chur-r” or “chwee-o,  chi-up, chee-rup”.

Reproduction:  Breeding season starts in January and lasts till June. But it depends on the place like in India breeding season is from April to July and in Srilanka, it’s from November to August and earlier in the south. Female lays eggs numbering from 3 to 5 which are pale blue-green in color, blotched and mottled with reddish brown. Female incubates and male shares other domestic chores.

Distribution:  It is resident, and breeds in South Asia, from Pakistan and India to South China, and Indonesia. It can be found up to 2500 meters of elevation in SW Asia. It is absent in arid areas. Due to this there is three races, on minor size and color differences.

• Salim Ali, The Book of Indian Birds
• Mohammad Ali Reza Khan, Wildlife of Bangaladesh
• Oiseaux-birds:  Common Tailorbird – Oiseaux-Birds
• Wikipedia: Common tailorbird
• Natureconservation.in: Common tailorbird (Orthotomus sutorius) complete detail
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Common Tailorbird

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• Flycatchers, Tits, Warblers

The Common Tailorbird is a songbird found across tropical Asia. Popular for its nest made of leaves sewn together. It is a common resident in urban gardens. Although shy birds that are usually hidden within vegetation, their loud calls are familiar and give away their presence. They are distinctive in having a greenish upper body plumage, long upright tail and the rust coloured forehead and crown.

These 15cm long warblers are brightly coloured, with bright green upperparts and whitish underparts. They have short rounded wings, a long tail, strong legs and a sharp bill with curved tip to the upper mandible. They are wren-like with a long upright tail that is often moved around. The crown is rufous and the upperparts are predominantly olive green. The underside is creamy white. The male and female are identical, except that the male has long central tail feathers in the breeding season. Young birds are duller. While calling; the dark patches on the sides of the neck become visible. These are due to the dark pigmented and bare skin that are present in both male and female and sometimes give the appearance of a dark gorget.

This Common Tailor bird is typically found in open farmland, scrub, forest edges and gardens. Tailorbirds get their name from the way their nest is constructed. The edges of a large leaf are pierced and sewn together with plant fibre or spider silk to make a cradle in which the actual nest is built.

Regional Names

• Assamese: টিপচী চৰাই
• Bengali: টুনটুনি
• Gujarati: દરજીડો
• Hindi: दर्जी
• Kannada: ಸಿಂಪಿಗ
• Malayalam: അടയ്ക്കാപ്പക്ഷി
• Marathi: शिंपी
• Nepali: पातसिउने फिस्टो

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Birds of Bangladesh Essay, Composition & Paragraph

Birds are Allah’s most beautiful creation. Bangladesh is a country covered with trees. So, many birds can be seen flying and roaming in this country. They maintain ecological balance and keep our nature beautiful. Birds help our agriculture by eating insects. In winter, flocks of migratory birds from Siberia take refuge in this country. Here is a bunch of essays, compositions, and paragraphs on Birds of Bangladesh. These shed light on the categories and lifestyles of birds in Bangladesh.

Table of Contents

Birds of Bangladesh Essay, 350 Words

By: Haque | For class 7-8 | 20-04-’22

Introduction: Bangladesh is a country full of trees and forests. These trees and forests are the abodes of thousands of birds. These birds give us much joy and make our country beautiful.

Different Types of Birds: There are different types of birds we find in this country. These birds have been described in the following categories:

1. Some Familiar Birds: The crow is one of the most familiar birds. We find it everywhere in the country. Though we dislike it for its black color and harsh voice, it is very useful to us. It cleans our environment by eating up dead animals and dirty things. The sparrow and pigeons are also very familiar birds. They build houses in the nooks and crannies of our houses.

2. Song Birds: There are many songbirds in Bangladesh. Among them the cuckoos, the nightingale, the robin, the Bulbuli, Bau Kotha Kau, the Mayna, and the Shyama are famous.

3. Tailor Birds: There are some birds that can build their nests skillfully. They are called tailor birds. The swallow, the Babui, the Tuntuni, and the Bulbuli are tailor birds.

4. The Game Birds: The heron, the stork, the water hen, the quail, and Pankauri are well-known game birds. They are hunted for their flesh.

5. Birds of Pray: The kite, the hawk, and the vulture are birds of prey. They have keen eyesight and sharp paws. They live on flesh and fish.

6. Domestic Birds: There are also some domestic birds in Bangladesh. They include the hen, the duck and the pigeon. Domestic birds give us eggs and meat.

7. Migratory Birds: Bangladesh also provides shelter to a great number of migratory birds. Most of them come from Siberia in winter and take shelter in our lakes and forests.

Conclusion: Birds are charming to look at. They are very important for maintaining ecological balance. They eat up insects and help our agriculture. They also help in the pollination of different species of trees. So we should protect our wealth of birds.

Birds of Bangladesh Essay, 400 Words

By: Haque | For class 9-10 | 20-04-’22

Introduction: Bangladesh is a country of natural beauties. It is filled with deep forests, canals, rivers, marshes, bushes and beels and haors which have made this country a happy abode of birds. Many types of birds are found everywhere in Bangladesh. They are different in size, color, and nature.

Common Birds: The crow is the most common bird in Bangladesh. It is seen everywhere in our country. It is a very black and ugly bird. Its voice is quite harsh. When it caws at dawn, we understand that the night is over. The sparrow is another common bird that is always seen in and around our dwelling places. The pigeon, the dove, the drongo, the woodpecker, the heron, the goose are some of the most common birds in Bangladesh. The magpie robin (doel) and the cuckoo are the singing birds of Bangladesh. The parrot, the mayna, and the martin are the talking birds of Bangladesh. They can imitate the voice of the people and can respond intelligently when a stranger arrives at home. It’s really very wonderful to hear when these birds speak like men or women. That’s why some of our people keep them as pets.

Birds of Prey: The hawk, the eagle, the falcon, the kite are the birds of prey usually found in the hilly areas. They usually kill small birds to feed on. The crane and the Kingfisher are very nice birds to look at. They live near ponds and water and catch small fish to feed on them. The vulture is a very big and ugly bird that feeds upon dead bodies and carcasses.

Nature: The nature of all birds is not the same. Some are gentle and some are mischievous. The crow is a very mischievous and cunning bird.

Place Where They Live: Some birds live in and around the dwelling places of the people, some birds live in the branches of the trees. Some birds live in the bushes, sanctuaries, and in deep forests.

Usefulness: Birds are very essential for a balanced environment. Some birds eat worms, dead bodies, and nasty things. They keep our environment neat and clean.

Conclusion: One of the wonderful creations of Almighty Allah is the bird. It does a lot of good to us. It gives us pleasure. Some of the birds are very useful to us. We should be kind to them so that they can live in a carefree spirit. If we want to live in this world in a congenial atmosphere, we must keep these birds alive.

Birds of Bangladesh Essay, 200 Words

In 200 words, for classes 7-8.

Hints: (i) Introduction, (ii) Different kinds of birds, (iii) The crow, (iv) Tailor Birds, (v) Singing Birds, (vi) Game Birds, (vii) Importance, (viii) Conclusion.

Introduction: Bangladesh is a homeland of many kinds of birds. We do not even know the names of all birds. We get up from bed at the twittering of the birds.

Different kinds of Birds: The birds of Bangladesh are different in colors, size, and habits. Some birds live on fruits and grains while some others feed on fish and flesh.

The Crow: Of all the birds, the crow is the common bird of Bangladesh. It feeds on dirty things. It is a black and ugly bird. Its harsh voice is annoying.

Tailor Birds: The Swallow, the Tuntuni, and the Babui are known as tailor birds. They live in the nests. The Babui make their nests in tall trees.

Singing Birds: The cuckoo, the Doel, the Bulbuli, the Bou Kotha Kow, the Chokh Gelo are well-known singing birds. Doel is the national bird of Bangladesh.

Game Birds: the heron, the partridge, the teal, dove, the pigeon, and the Pan Kowri are game birds.

Importance: The birds add to the beauty of nature. They also protect our crops from insects and worms. We also eat the flesh and eggs of some birds.

Conclusion: The birds are wonderful gifts of nature. We should be kind to them.

Birds of Bangladesh Paragraph, 200 Words

Bangladesh is a safe habitat for birds, as it is surrounded by lush green forests. In this country, there are various kinds of birds living in the trees, haors, beels, riverbanks, and bushes around the houses. They differ from one another in shape, type, color, chirp, and features. People of this country wake up in the morning by listening to the songs of birds. The most famous of the birds of Bangladesh are Doyle, Shalik, Crow, Stork, Cuckoo, Shyama, Finge, Sparrow, Babui, Moyna, Parakeet, Kingfisher, Dove, Francolin, Tailor-bird, Gallinule, Pankouri, Eagle, Hawk, Owl, Woodpeckers, etc. In all, there are more than six hundred species of birds in Bangladesh. About two-thirds of them live permanently in this country. The rest of the birds come to this country for a while, especially in winter. We call them migratory birds. Birds of Bangladesh can be classified into different categories according to their characteristics. Such as singing birds, pet birds, artist birds, hobby birds, aquatic birds, nocturnal birds, birds of prey, etc. There are many more unnamed birds in this country. These birds are part of our environment. They maintain the balance of nature and enhance the beauty of the environment. Therefore, bird hunting is completely banned in Bangladesh.

Looking for something else, about Bangladesh?

  Natural Beauty of Bangladesh Essay & Paragraph   Rivers of Bangladesh Essay & Paragraph   Fruits of Bangladesh Essay & Paragraph   Flowers of Bangladesh Essay & Paragraph   Unemployment Problem in Bangladesh Essay & Paragraph   Digital Bangladesh Compositions for Students   Transport System of Bangladesh Essay & Paragraph   Dhaka Metro Rail Paragraph

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Tuntuni – The Tailorbird in Our surrounding

The tailor is called as Darjee in Urdu/Hindi language. So a tailor bird may be called as a Darjee Bird. Darjee is one who tailors clothes. Can a bird tailor clothes? Not, at all. Then why do we use the couple of words – Tailor Bird?

The tailor bird derives its name from the unique manner through which it constructs its nest.

English poet Rudyard Kipling includes a couple of tailor birds in his famous classic “Rikki-Tikki-Tavi”   which is one of his jungle book stories. He calls them Darjee and his wife … I mean, Darjee in Kipling’s classic is a male bird with a wife of his own.

A Bengali poet Upendra Kishor has included tailor bird in his classic book- “Tuntuner Boi” as its name in Bengali is “Tuntuni.”

A bird is a warm blooded double footed vertebrate. It usually produces hard-celled eggs.

Bony beak, hollow bones, feathers and fore limbs modified as wings are basic features of the body of a bird .

Since birds are warm-blooded, their body is covered with insulating feathers to maintain an even temperature.

The size of the birds can vary from the tiny flower peckers & hummingbirds , to the huge Ostrich and the Sarus Crane.

In India, other than the Sarus Crane the Himalayan Bearded Vulture is the biggest bird and the tiny Tickell’s Flower peckers is hardly bigger than a human thumb. Most birds are capable of flight but some larger birds like Penguins, Ostrich and Kiwi are flightless .

Depending on different scientific classifications, as of today there are over 9000 bird species in the world out of which about 1250 species are found in India with almost 150 having become extinct due to human activities of various types.

A tailor bird has been named as Orthotomus sutoriu s in biological system of nomenclature. Common Tailorbirds are strong singers, making melodious calls that seem much louder than seems possible for such a tiny bird.

Common Tailorbirds are active and restless. These are usually heard rather than seen. These birds constantly shift their perch in the understory thickets, and make short, quick darting flights.

These birds roost alone during the non-breeding season . The roosting  sites chosen by these birds are thin twigs of trees with cover above them and  often close to human habitation and lights.

Common Tailorbirds are usually found in the forest edges, scrubs and cultivated areas such as parks and gardens. They are also found in open country sides. But they are never seen in a deep forest.

Tailorbirds eat insects. Both adults and larvae, actively forage for these in the understory of wooded habitats . They may also snack on small fruits and berries, and sip some nectar or eat tiny seeds.

They are usually found in pairs. Tailorbirds begin breeding in January, reaching a peak in February and March but continue to breed until June. The common Indian Tailor-bird breeds throughout India and Burma, alike in the plains and in the hills up to an elevation of from 3000 to 4000 feet.

The breeding-season lasts from May to August, but in the plains more nests are to be found in July, and in the hills more, in June, than during the other months.

The nest has been often described and figured, and, as is well known, is a deep soft cup enclosed in leaves, which the bird sews together to form a receptacle for it.

It is placed at all elevations. I have as often found it high upon a mango-tree and as low down amongst the leaves of the edible egg-plan (Solanum esculentum). Tailor birds are also called Long-tailed because the male’s breeding plumage features are highly extended than central tail feathers. These remain up to 3cm longer.

The Tailorbird appears most active all the time. It never gets tired. A the common tailorbird hops actively among bushes, hedges and trees in its ceaseless search for tiny insects. It lifts its tail high above its back and wags from side to side.

The flight of the tailor bird is weak and erratic which makes it an easy target for flying predators. Therefore, it flies swiftly from one patch of undergrowth to another; avoiding open areas.

A tailorbird pair forms a long-term bond and lives within a static territory all through a year. The birds remain in constant contact with each other, uttering a surprisingly loud, monotonous call: chee-up, chee-up.

When danger threatens, such as the appearance of the common small sparrow hawk— the pair makes noisy alarm calls of pit-pit-pit until the danger has passed.

Tailor birds are rare now a day. It is due to habitat destruction, large scale application of agro-chemicals by farmers and the changing climate.

Large scale use of fire crackers during religious and political functions is another serious reason behind the reducing number of tailor birds in India.

key words : Tailor bird, Rikki-Tikki-Tavi, Tuntuner Boi, Orthotomus sutorius, monotonous call

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A story of nesting tailorbirds from India

“I am Rekha from India. I was surfing the net to find some details about the birds that nested in my garden and reached your site. Yes, they are tailorbirds. A month back, they had made a nest on a potted hydrangea plant, around 2-3 ft. from the ground. There were 4 eggs and the mother warmed the eggs for more than a week. Unfortunately, one morning, we found that the plant was disturbed by a cat there was no trace of the eggs. We were very sad. To our delight, the same birds nested again on the same plant 2 weeks later. Almost the same position as before. This time, the nest was cleverly rolled in a leaf. Again there were 4 eggs. And 4 chicks were born on July 6th. Until Monday (13th July) morning, the parents were flying in and out, feeding. But we haven’t seen them afterwards. On Monday night and Tuesday night, the chicks were left alone in the nest, mother was not there. We are away during the daytime, so not sure if they are being fed in the day. Last night, the chicks were alive. They have black feathers now. I am wondering if 7 days are enough for the warmth of the mother? Why are the chicks left alone at night? The chicks didn’t cry or open their mouth when we checked yesterday. Is it because they are fed during the day? We are worried. Do you have answers?

“And one thing. The mother was not scared of us even when we looked into the nest when she was there. She would sit in the nest with her beak pointing outside. She would not fly away. Do tailorbirds get used to humans?”

Rekha added later: “The adult birds were not in the nest when we checked at 10 PM last night and today morning. We usually leave home at 7.45 AM. We haven’t seen them until then…”

Rekha Mathews India 15th July

On 16th July, Rekha added: “I have good news. The adult birds are feeding the chicks alright. Yesterday evening and today morning, we saw them taking care of the babies. But the interesting thing is that, they don’t sleep with the chicks in the night. Last night also, the chicks were alone in the nest! That means, they stopped warming them up on the 7th day!”

Note: Unfortunately Rekha has not identified the tailorbird. And an image is not available.

If you like this post please tap on the Like button at the left bottom of page.  Any views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the authors/contributors, and are not endorsed by the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum (LKCNHM, NUS) or its affiliated institutions. Readers are encouraged to use their discretion before making any decisions or judgements based on the information presented.

Other posts by YC Wee

Good stories movement, from watching birdwatchers to watching birds, bird society of singapore: a credible alternative to the nature society’s bird group, singapore-nature: 17. citizen science, singapore-nature: 16. living close to nature, 4 responses.

hey! the same incident happened here also….but on 04 aug 2009 morning i saw the nest broken down in two pieces….i don’t know ……are chicks eaten by cat or they flied away???? chicks were 24-25 days old….

• Pingback: Bird Ecology Study Group » The tailorbirds return for the third time to nest

What happened?

I came across your blog post as I was trying to find out the frequency of tailor bird laying eggs , the same scenario as you have explained has been the case with our garden …and some how the first time after the birds hatched the plant was disturbed when I went to check in the morning , there were no chicks fortunately 3 out of 4 were around the nest and since they had not not yet developed feathers I placed them back in the nest.

The 2 birds which survived after hatching till almost 8 days have took their first flight today

I clicked photos of them in nest while they had no feathers to today after their first flight ( had spent quite some time searching ,afraid they fell out again ) on a plant near by …I dint find an option to upload pics here in comment else I would have .

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