Ficedula basilanica
The Little Slaty Flycatcher (Ficedula basilanica) is a strikingly dimorphic yet exceedingly elusive passerine endemic to the Philippines, measuring approximately 12 cm (4.7 inches) in length. Males are instantly recognizable by their glossy black head and upperparts, dramatically contrasted by a brilliant white supercilium and a prominent white patch covering the side of the neck and throat, with pure white underparts. Females, in stark contrast, present a drabber appearance, featuring browni...
Found in lowland primary and well-developed secondary broadleaf evergreen forests, typically at elevations below 1,000 meters, favoring dense undergrowth and shaded areas near streams.
Exclusively insectivorous, feeding on a variety of small invertebrates such as flies, beetles, ants, and spiders.
This highly secretive and elusive diurnal bird typically remains hidden in the dense understory vegetation, making it more often heard than seen. It employs a classic flycatching strategy, making short sallies from low perches to snatch insects in flight, or gleaning invertebrates from foliage an...
The Little Slaty Flycatcher is strictly endemic to the Philippines, with a severely fragmented geographic distribution. Historically, it was recorded on the islands of Basilan, Mindanao, Leyte, and Samar. However, its current presence on Basilan is highly uncertain, and it may be extirpated from ...
Endangered
- The male Little Slaty Flycatcher's striking white supercilium and throat patch make it arguably one of the most distinctive, yet elusive, flycatchers in the world. - It is named after Basilan Island, one of the southernmost major islands of the Philippines, where it was originally discovered. -...