Green-backed Whistler

Pachycephala albiventris

The Green-backed Whistler (Pachycephala albiventris) is a striking, medium-sized passerine endemic to the Philippines, known for its distinctive coloration and melodious song. Measuring approximately 16-17 cm (6.3-6.7 in) in length and weighing around 25-30 grams, it boasts a vibrant olive-green back and wings, contrasting sharply with a clean white throat and belly, from which its scientific name 'albiventris' (white-bellied) is derived. A prominent black breast band and a dark grey head, of...

Habitat

This species primarily inhabits tropical moist lowland and montane forests, often found in the understory and mid-story, at elevations typically ranging from 300 to 2,000 meters above sea level.

Diet

Their diet consists mainly of insects and other small invertebrates, which they primarily obtain by gleaning from foliage and bark, or by short aerial pursuits.

Behavior

Green-backed Whistlers are active, diurnal birds, typically foraging individually or in pairs, often joining mixed-species flocks in the non-breeding season. Their foraging strategy involves gleaning insects from foliage and branches, often making short, agile sallies to catch prey mid-air or off...

Range

The Green-backed Whistler is endemic to the Philippines, with a restricted but stable distribution across several major islands. Its primary range includes the northern and central islands of Luzon, Mindoro, Catanduanes, Samar, Biliran, Leyte, Negros, Panay, and Mindanao. On Luzon, it is found th...

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Fun Facts

- The 'albiventris' in its scientific name, Pachycephala albiventris, literally means 'white-bellied', perfectly describing one of its most striking field marks. - Despite its relatively small size, the Green-backed Whistler possesses a remarkably loud and far-carrying vocalization, characteristi...

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