This bird it is found in Vietnam, Laos, China. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests. The native black-headed sibia (Heterophasia desgodinsi robinsoni) is one of subspecies. It is distinguished by its specific geographic location and some subtle variations in plumage or other characteristics. Specifically, it is the subspecies found in the Annamese Mountains of Vietnam.

Generally one of the most common birds in pristine hill forest. Its diet is varied and consists of insects, larvae, berries and nectar. They primarily forage in the treetops, but occasionally descend to the undergrowth. This bird has the status of a species of Least Concern.