Despite its extreme shyness, this brilliant gem of a bird finds it hard to go unnoticed, wearing an iridescent blend of garnet and blue that creates a spellbinding combination.
The Garnet Pitta (Erythropitta granatina) is a species of bird belonging to the Pittidae family. This medium-sized, stocky bird measures around 15-25cm in length, including a very short tail. Its plumage showcases a captivating mix of purplish-blue and garnet red, highlighted by sparkling blue wing covers and a vivid red crown.
Females of this species, on the other hand, are mostly brown with a red patch on the head and a few blue feathers near the wings.
Endemic to and found in various countries including Thailand, Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Burma, and Singapore, the Garnet Pitta thrives in tropical or subtropical moist lowland forests.
Breeding for the Garnet Pitta typically occurs between March and August. During this time, up to six eggs are laid in a large spherical nest situated in a tree or shrub, rarely on the ground. Both parents actively contribute to raising the offspring.
