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Bornean Bristlehead

Bornean Bristlehead
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Scientific classification
Kingdom:Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class:Aves
Order:Passeriformes
Family:Pityriaseidae
Genus: Pityriasis
Species: gymnocephala
Binomial name
Pityriasis gymnocephala
The Bornean Bristlehead, Pityriasis gymnocephala, is a passerine bird, the only member of the family Pityriaseidae. It is a medium-sized (10in/25cm) species endemic to Borneo.

This is a largely black bird with a red and yellow head. Females also have some red in the wings. It has a massive heavy black hooked bill and a short tail. The crown of the head has short, coloured projections like bare feather shaft, hence the name 'Bristlehead''.

The Bristlehead is found in lowland swamps and forests. It feeds on insects and other small invertebrates and reptiles. It is a noisy species making a variety of unmusical calls.

The relationships of this species have been controversial, but the most recent thinking is that it is a close relative of the Australian Cracticidae.