Jungle Babbler

Uniformly greyish-brown or earthy-brown with a slightly lighter throat and belly. Juveniles (like the one pictured) have a dark iris which turns pale creamy-yellow as they mature. The bill is yellow, becoming paler with age.

Yellowish bill and legs, dull earthy-grey plumage, pale creamy eyes (in adults), and their habit of moving in noisy groups.

Length: 25 cm (9.8 in); Wingspan: approx 30-35 cm; Weight: 65-80 grams.

A series of harsh, nasal 'ke-ke-ke' or 'chack-chack' sounds; they are known for their constant chattering when in a group.

Omnivorous; primarily feeds on insects, spiders, and larvae, but also consumes nectar, berries, and grain.

Open forest, scrubland, gardens, and urban parks with plenty of vegetation.

Resident; they do not migrate and occupy stable home ranges.

Builds a shallow cup nest in trees or bushes; breeding season is primarily March to July. Cooperative breeders where group members help feed the young.

Yellow-billed Babbler (found in southern India/Sri Lanka): Distinguished by a paler head and more contrasting yellow bill/eye ring. Common Babbler: Smaller with a longer tail and streaks on the back.

Act as important insect controllers and seed dispersers in their environment; they also serve as hosts for the Jacobin Cuckoo, which is a brood parasite.

Least Concern (IUCN); Population trend is stable.

Look for them hopping on the ground in leaf litter or in low bushes. They are very vocal and easy to find by following their harsh, chattering calls.

They are famously called 'Seven Sisters' or 'Saath Bhai' because they are almost always observed in a group of about seven individuals.