Data Zone
Justification of Red List Category
Although this species is widespread, it is scarce throughout its range and is suspected to be declining moderately rapidly owing to habitat loss. Its preference for slopes implies that it may be relatively secure, and it is therefore listed as Near Threatened.
Population justification
The global population size has not been quantified, but the species is described as generally rare to scarce across its range (del Hoyo et al. 2007).
Trend justification
Declines are suspected to be occurring as a result of habitat loss in many parts of the range, although data on the magnitude of these declines are lacking. Overall, the population is suspected to be in moderately rapid decline.
Stachyris leucotis occurs in the Sundaic lowlands, from peninsular Thailand, Sabah, Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia, Kalimantan and Sumatra, Indonesia and Brunei. It is generally scarce within this range, occurring at low densities even in ideal habitat. However, mist-net studies on Borneo suggest that it is commoner than observational records suggest (del Hoyo et al. 2007).
This species is found in primary evergreen forest, including logged forests and edge, from lowlands up to 1,000 m. It is generally found in hilly areas, and is suspected to be a slope specialist.
Rates of forest loss in the Sundaic lowlands have been extremely rapid, owing partly to the escalation of illegal logging and land conversion, with deliberate targeting of all remaining stands of valuable timber including those inside protected areas. Forest fires have also had a damaging effect (particularly in 1997-1998). The magnitude of these threats may be allayed by this species's tolerance of hill forests, which are under less pressure from logging and agricultural conversion.
Conservation Actions Underway
No targeted conservation actions are known for this species.
Conservation Actions Proposed
Conduct repeated surveys within the range to determine current distribution and abundance, as well as assess population trends and rates of habitat loss. Conduct ecological studies to improve understanding of its precise habitat requirements, particularly tolerance of secondary habitats and response to fragmentation. Effectively protect significant areas of suitable forest at key sites, in both strictly protected areas and community led multiple use areas.
Text account compilers
Benstead, P., Gilroy, J., Taylor, J.
Recommended citation
BirdLife International (2023) Species factsheet: Stachyris leucotis. Downloaded from
http://www.birdlife.org on 30/03/2023.
Recommended citation for factsheets for more than one species: BirdLife International (2023) IUCN Red List for birds. Downloaded from
http://www.birdlife.org on 30/03/2023.
