Pitohui uropygialis
The Southern Variable Pitohui (Pitohui uropygialis) is a striking medium-sized passerine, typically measuring 22-25 cm in length and weighing approximately 60-80 grams. Its plumage is characterized by rich rufous-brown upperparts and a variably colored underside, which can range from clean white to buff or even uniform rufous depending on the subspecies, often contrasting with a darker head or face. A distinctive field mark for identification is its pale iris, often described as white or yell...
This species primarily inhabits lowland to lower montane forests, forest edges, and secondary growth, occurring from sea level up to approximately 1,500 meters.
Its diet primarily consists of insects, including beetles (especially Melyridae beetles), and various fruits, which it obtains by gleaning from foliage and branches.
The Southern Variable Pitohui is typically observed singly, in pairs, or small family groups, often joining mixed-species foraging flocks in the mid-story and canopy of its forest habitat. It is diurnal, actively foraging during the day and likely roosting communally or individually in dense foli...
The Southern Variable Pitohui is widely distributed across the island of New Guinea and several adjacent smaller islands. Its range spans throughout much of the lowlands of both Indonesian Papua (Western New Guinea) and Papua New Guinea, extending to islands such as Yapen, Aru, and occasionally S...
Least Concern
- The Southern Variable Pitohui is one of the few known poisonous birds in the world, sequestering potent batrachotoxins in its skin and feathers. - These toxins are not produced by the bird itself but are acquired from its diet, specifically from certain Melyridae beetles. - Its toxicity serves ...