The Cambodian tailorbird (Orthotomus chaktomuk ) is a species of bird endemic to Cambodia, likely confined to a single dense shrub habitat in the floodplain of the Mekong river. It was first discovered and recorded by scientists in 2009 in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, during avian influenza checks. In 2013, it was determined to be a unique species and formally described. It is a very small bird, about 10 cm long, with an orange-red tuft on its head.
The Cambodian tailorbird has an orange-red crown, and a black throat. The rest of its body is light and dark gray. It is 11–12 cm (4.3–4.7 in) long and weighs between 6–8 g (0.21–0.28 oz). The Cambodian tailorbird is known for its "loud call", which is similar to that of the dark-necked tailorbird.
The Cambodian tailorbird lives in a small area of dense scrubland within the floodplain of the Mekong river. The dense shrub habitat allowed it to remain undetected for so long despite living on the outskirts of a major city. It is one of two bird species endemic to Cambodia, the other being the Cambodian laughingthrush.
The discoverers of the Cambodian tailorbird recommended that it be listed as "near threatened" on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List. They said it was at risk because its habitat is declining as a result of increased urbanisation. Most newly discovered species are categorised as such.
