Naga Wren-Babbler Spelaeornis chocolatinus Scientific name definitions

Endemic to montane forests of Nagaland and northern Manipur, India, the Naga Wren-Babbler was formerly considered conspecific with three other Spelaeornis wren-babblers until they were split based on morphology and vocalizations. This species was formerly treated as one of the subspecies of an expanded Spelaeornis chocolatinus which was comprised of four morphologically discrete subspecies, chocolatinus (Naga Wren-Babbler), oatesi (Chin Hills Wren-Babbler), reptatus (Gray-bellied Wren-Babbler), and kinneari (Pale-throated Wren-Babbler); however, marked morphological and vocal differences warranted species status for each.

Following this taxonomic change in the 2000s, the Naga Wren-Babbler now has one of the more restricted ranges of any bird species within India, a trait it shares with several of its congeners. Almost unknown for many years owing to the remoteness of its range and security concerns in the past, the Naga Wren-Babbler is now regularly encountered in several parts of its restricted range. Although it may appear to be common because of better coverage and accessibility to the region in present times, it may be declining owing to loss of habitat. It is nearly impossible to detect unless singing, and very difficult to observe even then, and thus, more research is urgently required to understand the true status, distribution, and habitat requirements of this endemic species. This article summarizes the little information available on this species, including historical literature, some of which may probably refer to other taxa that were formerly considered conspecific.