“Another endemic babbler, the Steere’s Liocichla (Liocichla steerii) tends to keep to the undergrowth but will come out to the road; not shy. Usually in small parties of 3-5 birds. Found at altitudes of 1,000-2,500 meters ASL (Avifauna of Taiwan, 2nd edition) but will come lower in winter.
“A brightly coloured bird, but required good light to appreciate all the features. The striking feature is the yellow-orange patch in front of the eyes (loral streak) that gives it a ‘head-lamp’ appearance, especially end on.
“Has yellow-orange streaks radiating from the face/ear-coverts as well as forehead. Tertials and secondary coverts chestnut-orange. Black with white tips at ends of tail and secondary coverts.
“Terminal end of underside of tail is graduated with lovely yellow-orange vent feathers with maroon centres.”
Dato’ Dr Amar-Singh HSS
Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
18th December 2014
Location: Dasyueshan National Forest Recreation Area, Heping District, Taiwan
Habitat: 2000 meter ASL, forested region, streams and gullies