Biology

The black shama is an unobtrusive bird, often heard before it is seen, probably due to its inconspicuous appearance and its preference for skulking in the dense understorey of forest. The breeding season extends from February to September, when two to three eggs are laid in cup-shaped nests, often found placed in the sawed or broken ends of bamboo stalks (2). The only information known about this secretive bird's diet comes from the contents of a female's stomach, which contained small, black beetles (4).