File:Long-tailed broadbill.jpg

English: Witnessing the enchanting sight of a flock of long-tailed broadbills enjoying the early morning sunrays in Mahananda, West Bengal, India, was a momentous experience for me as a wildlife storyteller. Special thanks to Professional birding guide Pritam Dey for facilitating this extraordinary encounter.

The long-tailed broadbill (Psarisomus dalhousiae) is a distinctive bird species found in the Himalayas, ranging from Northeastern India to Southeast Asia. Recognizable by its vibrant plumage and shrill call, it is the sole member of the genus Psarisomus.

Sporting a striking yellow throat and blueish-green belly, back, and wings, the long-tailed broadbill is a sociable forest-dweller, often traveling in large, noisy groups except during the breeding season. It constructs pear-shaped nests in trees and feeds primarily on insects. Both male and female participate in incubating the 5 to 6 eggs and feeding the young.

Adult long-tailed broadbills exhibit remarkable coloration, with a black-capped head adorned with blue patches and a sleek blue crown. Their green feathers along the back, belly, and wings create a stunning visual contrast. Juveniles display duller plumage and shorter tails, gradually developing the vibrant hues characteristic of adults.

Measuring around 10 inches (25 cm) in length and weighing between 50 and 60 grams, these birds possess a distinctively broad, yellowish-green bill and pea-green toes. Their graceful presence and vivid colors make them a captivating subject for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike.

These birds flock was photograhed at Mahananda, West Bengal. India