The Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia are home to the little passerine bird species known as leafbirds (Chloropseidae). In the past, they were included in the Irenidae family together with ioras and fairy-bluebirds.Leafbirds weigh 15–48 g (0.53–1.69 oz) and measure 14–21 cm (5.5–8.3 in). Their name comes from their bright plumage, resembling bulbuls, though bulbuls are usually duller. Leafbirds always live in trees and shrubs. Most species inhabit evergreen forests, except the orange-bellied leafbird in deciduous forests and the golden-fronted and Jerdon’s leafbirds in monsoon forests.
Perched Beauty On a small perch, the bird enjoys the bloom.
Leafbirds inhabit all types of broadleaf forests in Southeast Asia and the Indian Subcontinent. They feed in the canopy, consuming insects, fruit, and nectar. Moving quickly along branch ends, they search for prey, glean it, or chase it into the air and even to the forest floor. They can also hover-glean to catch prey. Leafbirds are popular as cage birds due to their beauty, melodious voices, and ability to mimic sounds. Their trade is mostly limited to Asia, but large-scale capture has depleted some populations. Despite deforestation reducing their habitat, the eleven species remain common in suitable areas. However, more than half of them face the risk of extinction.
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