Colors of the Forest: The Enchanting World of the Graceful Pitta

The Graceful Pitta finds its home in the verdant landscapes of Sumatra and Indonesia. It thrives amidst the lush beauty of subtropical and tropical moist montane forests.

Graceful pittas are known for their stunning and contrasting colours. They wear a combination of deep blue, green, and black on their upper parts. A bright red crown adorns their head, and a black stripe by their eyes gives them a mysterious mask. Underneath, their belly glows in a rich shade of orange.

These birds are mainly active during the day, but they sometimes show their lively side at night too. When it's time to find a mate, they sing and call even when the sun goes down. Graceful pittas mainly feast on insects, worms, and other tiny creatures. Their strong beaks help them dig through leaves and soil to find their meals. And they have a special way of feeding – they hop on the ground and use quick flicks to reveal their hidden food.

The Graceful Pitta faces tough challenges, though. It is marked as "Near Threatened" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Deforestation is a big problem for them. Sadly, they are also caught and sold illegally as pets in certain places.

In many cultures and areas where they live, Graceful Pittas are symbols of beauty, grace, and charm. Their colourful feathers make them captivating stars in local stories and legends.

Watching and studying the Graceful Pitta in its natural home is a treat for people who love birds and photography. During my birding adventures along Tapan Road in Sumatra, I was lucky to spot the pitta three times while hiding in a bird hide.

As I share these photos taken deep in the heart of the forest, I want to invite you to feel that special moment with me. It was a short but timeless meeting with the Graceful Pitta. Let these pictures remind us of how important it is to take care of the delicate balance of nature.