Erythropitta macklotii
The Papuan Pitta, Erythropitta macklotii, is a dazzling jewel of the New Guinean undergrowth, celebrated for its spectacular, almost artificial-looking plumage. Measuring approximately 16-19 cm in length, this stout-bodied bird boasts a vibrant deep red belly and undertail coverts, contrasting sharply with its brilliant blue rump and uppertail. Its upperparts are a rich green, transitioning to an iridescent blue on the shoulder patches, while the head features a distinctive black crown and fa...
Found primarily in lowland tropical rainforests, including secondary growth and forest edges, this species favors dense understory. It occurs from sea level up to approximately 1,500 meters in elevation.
Its diet consists mainly of insects, particularly ants, beetles, and termites, as well as other invertebrates like worms and snails. Occasionally, it may consume small berries or fruits.
The Papuan Pitta is a highly secretive, diurnal bird, spending most of its time foraging silently on the forest floor, typically alone or in pairs. It employs a distinctive hop-and-pause foraging technique, meticulously sifting through leaf litter with its bill, gleaning insects and other inverte...
The Papuan Pitta is endemic to the New Guinean bioregion, displaying a resident distribution across a wide array of islands. Its primary range encompasses the entire mainland of New Guinea, spanning both Indonesian West Papua and Papua New Guinea. Beyond the mainland, significant populations are ...
Least Concern
- The Papuan Pitta is often referred to as a 'jewel pitta' due to its incredibly vibrant and diverse plumage colors. - Despite its bright coloration, its secretive nature and preference for dense undergrowth make it remarkably difficult to spot, often being detected only by its distinctive calls....