Black baza

The black baza is a fascinating small bird of prey found in regions such as Northeast India, the eastern Himalayas, China, and Southeast Asia. Some populations migrate, with those from India moving south to the Peninsula and Sri Lanka during winter.

These birds are easily identifiable by their short, sturdy legs, strong talons, and striking crests. They prefer dense forests and are typically observed in small groups, often perched on the bare branches of tall trees.

Originally named Falco leuphotes, the black baza has several geographic subspecies, including A. l. syama, A. l. leuphotes, and A. l. andamanica. They are relatively small, measuring about 30 to 35 cm in length and weighing between 168 to 224 grams. Their distinctive coloring and crest make them quite conspicuous when perched.

During migration, black bazas are notably social, often roosting together. Their diet primarily consists of insects, and they are most active during dawn and dusk.

These birds are distributed across Southeast Asia and parts of South Asia, with some populations undertaking seasonal migrations. They breed in northeastern India and Burma, and can be seen in winter in locations such as the Western and Eastern Ghats in southern India. For nesting, breeding pairs construct nests from thin sticks and grass, and their chicks are predominantly fed insects.

Interestingly, in regions like Hong Kong and Thailand, some black bazas have taken up year-round residence, despite historically being only summer visitors.