Can Geographical Distance influenced the Differences in Birds Features ?

We may all appear different from the outside but deep inside i believe we are all the same - ever compassionate and merciful. In the avian world, geographical distance may have some effect on some birds plumage thus creating more subspecies. This can only be determined / confirmed if the subtle differences occur over a period of time. Recently i came across some birds from different states which show some differences in their outlook despite been from the same species.

I start with Mr Abbott's Babbler (M. abbotti):

The photo below of an Abbott's Babbler was taken in Kedah. Its flank appear more buffy while the orbital ring around its eyes were less prominent as compared with the one i saw in Penang mainland.

Below are those from Penang mainland

Despite the above differences, i would also not discount that they could be from different gender or age group. More observations are required.

Next is the Mangrove Flycatcher (C. rufigastra):

The photo below depicts a Mangrove Flycatcher taken at Penang mainland.

and this one below was taken in Kedah recently

Again although both the above flycatchers were male but the differences (color of its legs, throat and forehead) could be due to age variation or the different timing of moulting (of their feathers).

Here is the very common "White-throated Kingfisher" (H. smyrnensis):

The above photo was taken in KL. It looks like your typical white-throated kingfisher.

This one below was taken in Perlis. It appears darker and with a brighter turquoise above and on wing coverts.

Could it be from a different Ssp?

Science and birds are inextricable just like a lady and her lipstick but when you use Science against humanity its no longer a science !

Paddyfield Pipit (Anthus rufulus)

It is probably one of those avians which are often overlook or understudy due to their plain plumage and common presence. You can find them in open countries, farmlands, soccer fields, coastal plains and dry country roads (my personal observation) although i have also seen them at the foot of a mountain in Ulu Langat. Despite been called a paddyfield pipit, it is usually found along the dirt roads surrounding the paddyfields and not in the ricefields itself like those snipes and bitterns would do.

Some places have also named them as oriental pipit probably due to its occurrence in mainly Asia countries but it was reported to be a non-breeding resident bird here in Malaysia. (Birdlife International, 2016). Recently in May 2019, i came across a number of Paddyfield Pipits at a vast marshland in Penang mainland which reminds me of a similar looking site at Chuping. Here are some photos of what should be Paddyfield Pipits at this location although migratory pipits such as Richard's Pipit (A. richardi) and Blyth's Pipit (A. godlewskii) have been seen and reported in Malaysia. 

Paddyfield Pipit (Anthus rufulus)

Posed like a Richard's Pipit, looks like one but it ain't one.

I believe the above pipit is an adult bird which has just molted it feathers hence showing very clear and fine markings or perhaps it could be due to its breeding colors.

Currently there are 6 recognised subspecies and the ones found here are thought to be A.r malayensis which is reported to be darker and heavily streaked while the nominate race is much creamy and has a more buffy supercilium (HBW Alive).

The one above appears more like a Paddyfield Pipit - long legs, upright stand, more rufescent and short tail.

The bird above looks a bit duller.

Not sure whether all the birds shown here are the same but all these photos were taken at different locations covering a very large area.

These birds are rarely seen high up in the canopy. At most they perched at eye level.

Some of them do hide inside the long grasses if threats are perceived.

While some do not mind to be out in the open.

Life can be tough and lonely if the entire institution machineries are used against you but the above Paddyfield Pipit with an abnormal leg has shown the tenacity and strong will to survive this far.


Here are some photos of a juvenile Paddyfield Pipit with a grasshopper prey

HAVE SOME FUN WHILE YOU CAN !