Pitta steerii
The Azure-breasted Pitta, *Pitta steerii*, is a stunning jewel of the Philippine undergrowth, instantly recognizable by its iridescent plumage. Measuring approximately 18-20 cm (7-8 inches) in length and weighing between 70-90 grams (2.5-3.2 ounces), this stocky passerine showcases a vibrant azure blue breast and belly, contrasting sharply with a black head and a bright green back and wing-coverts. Its most distinctive field marks include a bold black face mask, a prominent blue supercilium e...
Found predominantly in lowland and foothill primary and mature secondary forests, often near streams or damp areas, at elevations typically below 1,000 meters.
Feeds primarily on a variety of invertebrates, including insects, snails, earthworms, and grubs, gleaned from sifting through leaf litter and probing the forest floor.
The Azure-breasted Pitta is a highly secretive and diurnal bird, spending most of its time on the humid forest floor, often in dense undergrowth where it remains well-camouflaged. It employs a distinctive foraging strategy, hopping deliberately through leaf litter, pausing to flick leaves aside w...
The Azure-breasted Pitta is an endemic resident of the Philippines, with its distribution restricted to several islands within the archipelago. Its known breeding and resident range includes Mindanao, particularly in the Zamboanga Peninsula and parts of Davao; Basilan Island; Dinagat Island; and ...
Vulnerable
- The Azure-breasted Pitta is endemic to just a few islands in the Philippines, making it a true regional specialty. - Its common name aptly describes its most striking feature: the brilliant, almost iridescent blue of its breast. - These birds are often referred to as "jewel thrushes" due to the...