The lesser shortwing (Brachypteryx leucophris) is a small passerine bird found in subtropical or tropical moist forests and montane forests. It breeds in the Himalayas, and winters in the Western Ghats of India and Sri Lanka. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
The lesser shortwing is a threatened species, with a population of less than 10,000 mature individuals. The main threats to the lesser shortwing are habitat loss and fragmentation, hunting, and climate change.