In the world of avian wonders, there exists a bird whose appearance is truly a spectacle. It adorns a bright red jacket that provides the perfect backdrop for a sparkling blue necklace, delicately draping across its breast like a piece of fine jewelry.
Meet the blue-banded pitta (Erythropitta arquata), a captivating member of the Pittidae family. Widely recognized as the “Jewel of Borneo,” this bird stands out with its utterly unique and striking appearance. Cloaked in vivid red plumage on its belly and sides, it is adorned with exquisite silver-blue flecks that shimmer around its neck. The face boasts a gentle tangerine hue, while the plumage on its back showcases a subdued blue-green color.
The females of this species are equally enchanting in appearance, albeit displaying a slightly different hue beneath the wings and tail.
The Blue-Banded Pitta calls Indonesia home, its native habitat being the island of Borneo.
Preferring the solace of hilly and submontane sub-tropical or tropical moist lowland forests, this shy bird often seeks out areas with a touch of disturbance, such as bamboo groves and fallen trees.
Fortunately, due to the expansive range it inhabits, the Blue-Banded Pitta is currently not believed to be under any immediate threat. As it continues to grace the forests of Borneo with its resplendent presence, the glistening necklace across its red canvas remains a testament to the exquisite beauty that exists within the realm of avian life.
