Nature’s canvas is painted with remarkable creatures that defy expectations and capture the imagination. Among these treasures, the black-and-red broadbill (Cymbirhynchus macrorhynchos) stands as an avian masterpiece, donning a plumage that transforms it into a living work of art. From the lush landscapes of Borneo to the remote corners of Sumatra, this bird graces its native habitats with an elegance that leaves observers in awe.
Cloaked in a midnight black attire, the black-and-red broadbill is an embodiment of grace and distinction. Its wings, adorned with long white strokes, appear as if touched by an artist’s brush, infusing a touch of sophistication to its presence. The wine-red underparts create a dramatic contrast, akin to a velvety red wine swirling against a dark backdrop. A sleek black chinstrap adds a touch of mystery, enhancing its aura of enigma.
The upperparts of these birds are a symphony of greenish-black tones, adorned with a maroon half-collar that bestows an air of regality. Maroon rumps and uppertail coverts, resembling precious gems, are seamlessly woven into their plumage. The scapulars, kissed by pure white edges, transform into a delicate white line when the wings are folded, adding an intricate touch to their design. The tail, dipped in deep black, is occasionally adorned with dashes of white, creating a harmonious visual balance.
The bill of the black-and-red broadbill is a work of nature’s artistry in itself. A dichromatic masterpiece, it showcases a vibrant turquoise-blue maxilla complemented by a yellow-orange mandible adorned with delicate blue accents along the tip and edges. Their irises shimmer like lush emeralds, mirroring the beauty of their lush habitat.
In their juvenile stage, these birds adopt a more subtle appearance. With sooty brown upperparts and maroon patches gracing the rump and upper tail coverts, they exude a youthful charm. Brown underparts and wings contribute to their understated yet elegant demeanor. Their bills, ranging from blackish to brownish-blue, along with bronze irises, complete their youthful allure.
Thriving in the heart of tropical and subtropical moist lowland forests, as well as the embrace of mangrove forests near water’s edge, the black-and-red broadbills are consummate foragers. Their versatile diet includes insects, mollusks, crabs, and even the occasional small fish, showcasing their seamless adaptation to their lush habitats.
When the breeding season, spanning from March to June, arrives, a captivating chapter of collaboration unfolds. Both male and female partners engage in crafting a unique nest, a bulky orb suspended gracefully from a deceased branch or stick, hovering just above the water’s surface. Within this haven, the female lays 2-3 eggs, and both parents dedicate themselves to a 21-day incubation period. As the eggs hatch, the chicks are nurtured with utmost care by their devoted parents, until the moment arrives for their maiden flight, 17 days later.
Despite its local commonality and widespread presence across vast breeding ranges, the black-and-red broadbill retains its status as a species of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. This bird, a tapestry of charm and elegance, encapsulates the boundless diversity that characterizes our natural world. Its mere existence stands as a testament to the wonder that can be found in even the most remote corners of our Earth.
