Data Zone
Justification of Red List category
This species has a moderately large range, and hence does not approach the thresholds for Vulnerable under the range size criterion (Extent of Occurrence <20,000 km2 combined with a declining or fluctuating range size, habitat extent/quality, or population size and a small number of locations or severe fragmentation). The population trend is inferred to be stable, hence the species does not approach the thresholds for Vulnerable under the population trend criterion (>30% decline over ten years or three generations). The population size has not been quantified, and hence it does not approach the thresholds for Vulnerable under the population size criterion (<10,000 mature individuals with a continuing decline estimated to be >10% in ten years or three generations, or with a specified population structure). For these reasons the species is evaluated as Least Concern.
Population justification
The population size of this species has not been quantified, although it occurs over a relatively wide area in a habitat where it can be found in relatively high densities with little competition (eBird 2023). In Thailand, Treesucon and Limparungpatthanakij (2018) described as 'locally common' a species concept that combines G. crispifrons sensu stricto and G. annamensis. In Vietnam, described as 'locally fairly common' (Craik and Lê 2018). Thus while the population size is not estimated here, it is considered unlikely to be especially small.
Trend justification
No repeat surveys have been undertaken of this species from which to estimate directly its population trend. However, using habitat extent as a proxy, it is inferred to be stable in the absence of other plausible threats. Remote sensing data indicate only minimal habitat loss in its range, amounting to less than 2% loss over the past three generations (11.6 years: 2011-2023) (Global Forest Watch 2023, based on data from Hansen et al. [2013] and methods disclosed therein). Although this value does not account for habitat degradation, this species is evidently adaptable to some degradation, and occurs at sites that have been heavily modified and are fragmented (eBird 2023). In the absence of any data to the contrary, there is no evidence that this species has declined over the past three generations and its dependence on rugged limestone karsts is likely to protect it from future declines.
Confined to an area of limestone karsts in the Northern Annamites, in Lao P.D.R., Viet Nam, Thailand and (narrowly) China. The exact limits of its distribution are unknown, although it is evidently absent from Phou Hin Poun NBCA in Lao PDR and is replaced (/competitively excluded) by G. brevicaudata from some sites it might be expected in northern Viet Nam. More research needed.
Occurs only on limestone karsts, utilising evergreen forest, mixed deciduous forest and scrub thereon, often in rugged areas with boulders, crags and gullies. In Thailand and Viet Nam, occurs to c. 900 m (Treesucon and Limparungpatthanakij 2018, Craik and Lê 2018).
Conservation Actions Underway
None specific to this species is known, although it occurs in multiple protected areas (UNEP-WCMC and IUCN 2023).
Conservation Actions Needed
Ensure that areas of limestone karst remain protected from future forest loss and quarrying.
Text account compilers
Berryman, A.
Recommended citation
BirdLife International (2024) Species factsheet: Annamite Limestone-babbler Gypsophila annamensis. Downloaded from
https://datazone.birdlife.org/species/factsheet/annamite-limestone-babbler-gypsophila-annamensis on 26/12/2024.
Recommended citation for factsheets for more than one species: BirdLife International (2024) IUCN Red List for birds. Downloaded from
https://datazone.birdlife.org/species/search on 26/12/2024.