Spotting the Grey-crowned Crocias in Vietnam: Top 3 Locations

The Grey-crowned Crocias (Laniellus langbianis) is an intriguing bird that blends characteristics of shrikes.

The Grey-crowned Crocias is a distinctive bird species endemic to Vietnam, belonging to the family of laughingthrushes. It is recognized by its unique appearance, which includes a slaty-grey crown, a black “robber’s mask,” a warm orange-brown back, streaked white underparts, and a long grey tail with white tips. This bird is often observed in pairs or small flocks, sometimes mixing with other species as it forages in the canopy.

Identification:

• Size: About 22 cm in length.
• Coloration: Slaty-grey crown, blackish mask, rufous upperparts with blackish-brown streaks, and white underparts.
• Juvenile: Features a browner crown with broader buffish streaks and smaller flank streaks.
• Voice: Its song is a loud and rapid sequence of high-pitched chitters, often described as “wip’ip’ip-wiu-wiu-wiu-wiu-wiu-wiu-wiu.”

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Habitat and Range

The Grey-crowned Crocias is primarily found on the Da Lat Plateau and, more recently, in the Kontum Plateau, where it may be more abundant. It inhabits intact broadleaf evergreen forests and secondary forests, generally near watercourses, at elevations between 910 and 1,450 meters.

Behavior

This species is primarily arboreal, often foraging with mixed-species flocks, primarily in the outer canopy of broadleaved evergreen and coniferous trees. Due to its elusive nature and preference for high canopies, it is easily overlooked, making it a challenge to observe.

Conservation Status

The Grey-crowned Crocias is classified as Endangered due to its very small and declining range, caused by habitat destruction and degradation. The estimated population size ranges between 1,500 to 7,000 mature individuals. Habitat loss, particularly due to logging, agriculture, and infrastructure development, poses significant threats to its survival.

Conservation Efforts

The species occurs in protected areas such as Chu Yang Sin Nature Reserve, though protection measures are still needed. Conservation actions proposed include conducting further surveys, monitoring population trends, expanding protected areas, and promoting sustainable land use practices.

How to Observe the Grey-crowned Crocias

Best Season to Look for the Grey-crowned Crocias

The optimal time to search for the Grey-crowned Crocias is during the dry season, which typically spans from November to April in Vietnam. During this period, the weather is more predictable, and the birds are more active, making them easier to observe as they forage more frequently in the canopy.

Top 3 Locations for Observation

1. Chu Yang Sin National Park (Da Lat Plateau, Lam Dong Province):

• Habitat: Montane evergreen forests at elevations between 910 to 1,450 meters, particularly near watercourses.
• Tips: Focus on areas with dense, broadleaf evergreen forests. The bird tends to stay in the canopy, so keep an eye out for movement in the higher branches. Early morning is often the best time for bird activity.

2. Mount Lang Bian (Da Lat Plateau, Lam Dong Province):

• Habitat: Remaining patches of evergreen forest above 900 meters, despite much of the land below 1,500 meters being logged or cultivated.
• Tips: Look in the less disturbed forested areas and listen for its distinctive song, which can help locate this otherwise hard-to-spot bird.

3. Mang Den (Kontum Plateau, Kontum Province):

• Habitat: Montane evergreen forests, particularly around 910 to 1,130 meters in elevation.
• Tips: The bird is often seen in small groups, foraging in the canopy. Be patient and observant, as sightings here have become relatively more frequent.

Practical Tips for Birdwatching

1. Listen for Its Song: The Grey-crowned Crocias has a loud, rapid-fire song that can help you pinpoint its location. The song usually consists of a series of high-pitched notes that carry well through the forest.
2. Search in the Canopy: This species spends most of its time in the outer canopy of tall trees. Look for movement in the treetops, and use binoculars or a spotting scope for a better view.
3. Join a Guided Tour: Due to its elusive nature, joining a birdwatching tour with a local guide who knows the area and the bird’s habits can significantly increase your chances of a sighting.
4. Visit During Early Morning: The Grey-crowned Crocias is most active in the early morning. Plan your search during the first few hours after dawn when the bird is more likely to be foraging and singing.

Conservation and Responsible Birdwatching

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Given the Grey-crowned Crocias’ endangered status, it’s crucial to approach your search with a conservation mindset. Stick to established trails to avoid disturbing its habitat, and avoid using playback calls excessively, as this can stress the birds. Always prioritize the bird’s well-being and the integrity of its environment.

The Grey-crowned Crocias is a symbol of Vietnam’s rich biodiversity, and its conservation is vital for preserving the unique avian diversity of the region.

Tour include chance to see Grey-crowned Crocias

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