Pittas of Vietnam – Pittidae
Vietnam is home to 9 special species of pittas, though some are quite difficult to spot. Among them, the Bar-bellied Pitta and the Blue-rumped Pitta, near-endemic treasures, are the top target for birdwatchers. Although their range extends beyond Vietnam’s borders, the country remains their stronghold. Vietnam also hosts seven other pitta species, including a striking subspecies of the Blue Pitta found on the Dalat Plateau and the rare, elusive Blue-naped Pitta in the north.
You may know: 2 standout bird families—pittas and laughingthrushes—are known for their vibrant colors and unique calls, making them among the most sought-after species for birders exploring Vietnam’s rich forests.
An Overview on Pittas Families
Pittas are a group of colorful birds, around 40 to 42 species, found in Asia, Australasia, and Africa. Sharing similar looks and behaviors, they were once grouped under one category but later divided into three: Pitta, Erythropitta, and Hydrornis. These birds have medium size,15-25 cm in length, strong legs, short tails, and slightly curved beaks. Some of them stand out with their bright feathers.
Most pittas live in tropical forests, though some can be found in scrublands and mangroves. They spend most of their time on the ground, searching for earthworms, insects, and small creatures in damp areas with plenty of cover. Although pittas usually live alone, during breeding season, they form pairs and build large, dome-shaped nests in trees, shrubs, or sometimes on the ground, where females lay up to six eggs. Both parents take care of the young. While most pittas stay in one place, a few species migrate, though their movements are not well understood.
Pittas Species in Vietnam
Eared Pitta Hydrornis phayrei
Status: Uncommon resident (W&E Tonkin, C Annam)
Best time to watch & Photo: Feb-Apr
Hotspot: Cuc Phuong Np.
Blue-naped Pitta Hydrornis nipalensis
Status: Scarce resident (W&E Tonkin, N Annam)
Best time to watch & Photo: Feb-Apr
Hotspot: Tam Dao Np, Pu Mat Np.
Rusty-naped Pitta Hydrornis oatesi
Status: Uncommon resident (W&E Tonkin, N, C & S Annam)
Best time to watch & Photo: Feb-Apr
Hotspot: Dalat Plateau
Blue Pitta Hydrornis cyaneus
Status: Local fairly common resident (E Tokin, N, C & S Anam)
Best time to watch & Photo: Feb-Apr
Hotspot: Di Linh, Dalat
Hooded Pitta Pitta sordida
Status: Rare breeding visitor (W Tonkin, S Annam, Cochinchina)
Best time to watch & Photo: Aug-Sep
Hotspot: Ho Chi Minh, Mekong Delta
All Vietnam Birds Families
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