The Bornean black magpie (Platysmurus aterrimus) is a species of bird in the family Campephagidae, endemic to the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia. It is a medium-sized, predominantly black passerine noted for its long tail and striking plumage, which distinguishes it from other members of the family.
Taxonomy and systematics
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves
- Order: Passeriformes
- Family: Campephagidae
- Genus: Platysmurus
- Species: P. aterrimus
The species was first described by American ornithologist Robert Swinhoe in 1868. The generic name Platysmurus derives from Greek roots meaning “broad tail,” while the specific epithet aterrimus is Latin for “very black,” reflecting the bird’s uniform dark coloration.
Description
Adult Bornean black magpies measure approximately 30–35 cm in length, with the tail comprising roughly half of the total length. The plumage is uniformly glossy black with a slight iridescence in the sunlight. The beak is relatively short and stout, and the legs are dark gray. Juveniles are duller, exhibiting a brownish tinge on the underparts. There is minimal sexual dimorphism; males and females appear alike in the field.
Distribution and habitat
The species is confined to Borneo, occurring in both Malaysian and Indonesian territories (Sabah, Sarawak, Kalimantan). It inhabits primary lowland and hill forests, typically up to 1,200 m in elevation. The bird prefers dense, mature forest interiors but can also be found at forest edges and in secondary growth where sufficient canopy cover persists.
Behavior and ecology
- Diet: Primarily insectivorous, feeding on beetles, caterpillars, and other arthropods gleaned from foliage and bark. It also consumes small fruits opportunistically.
- Foraging: Typically forages alone or in small family groups, moving methodically through the canopy and mid‑level forest strata.
- Breeding: Breeding season is not precisely defined but coincides with the regional rainy period (approximately May to August). Nests are cup-shaped structures built in tree forks, constructed from twigs, moss, and lichens. Clutch size is usually two to three eggs, which are pale blue with speckles. Both parents participate in incubation and chick rearing.
- Vocalizations: The species emits a series of soft, melodious whistles and harsh notes, used for territorial advertisement and pair communication.
Conservation status
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies the Bornean black magpie as “Least Concern” due to its relatively wide distribution within Borneo and presence in several protected areas. However, ongoing deforestation driven by logging, palm oil expansion, and infrastructure development poses localized threats, particularly to lowland forest populations. Conservation measures emphasize habitat preservation and monitoring of population trends.
References
- BirdLife International. (2022). Platysmurus aterrimus. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2022.
- S. H. Nor, et al. (2015). “Habitat use and distribution of Bornean forest birds.” Journal of Ornithology, 156(3): 567‑579.
- Swinhoe, R. (1868). “On a new species of Platysmurus from Borneo.” Proceedings of the Zoological Society of London, 36: 187‑189.