Sumatran Mesia: A Beautiful Species Threatened with Extinction

Hi guys, this time I will post about a very colorful and very beautiful bird, namely the Sumatra Mesia (Leiothrix laurinae) (photo is a subspecies rookmakeri which is only found in the northern Sumatra), This spesies of bird is an endemic bird that is stunning with the beauty of its feathers that captivate everyone who sees it.

Sumatra Mesia is known for its bright and harmonious feather colors. Its body is dominated by yellow and olive green with orange-red accents around its wings. Its face is decorated with black stripes like a "mask", giving it a distinctive appearance. This combination of colors makes the Sumatra Mesia one of the most sought after birds among other Sumatran endemic birds.

Previously, this bird could be found throughout the highlands of Sumatra, but in recent years it has only been found in the northern part of Sumatra at an altitude of 600 to 2,100 meters above sea level. Sumatra Mesia birds often live in small groups, moving actively in the bushes and lower forest layers. Its voice is often heard before it is seen, with its distinctive loud voice, attracting the attention of bird watchers.

As insectivorous and fruit-eating animals, Sumatran Mesia play an important role in maintaining the balance of the forest ecosystem. By they help spread seeds that are very important for the regeneration of Sumatran forests that are continuously threatened by deforestation.

Despite having a habitat in a relatively difficult-to-reach mountainous area, the Sumatran Mesia bird still faces threats, especially due to forest destruction and hunting for the wildlife trade. Currently, the IUCN status of Sumatran Mesia is at the Endangered (EN) level and conservation efforts need to be carried out immediately to protect its habitat and monitor its trade and hunting.

Have you ever seen Sumatran Mesia or want to see it in the wild? Share your experiences in the comments column!