Pachycephala calliope
The Tenggara Whistler (Pachycephala calliope) is a captivating small-to-medium sized passerine, typically measuring around 15-17 cm in length and weighing between 18-25 grams. Males are strikingly adorned with bright yellow underparts, a dark grey or black head featuring a prominent white throat, and an olive-green back and wings, creating a vivid contrast. Females, in contrast, are generally duller, lacking the strong head pattern and displaying paler yellow or olive-washed underparts. Disti...
The Tenggara Whistler primarily inhabits various forest types, including monsoon forest, eucalyptus woodlands, and dense secondary growth, found from coastal areas up to approximately 1,200 meters in elevation.
The Tenggara Whistler is primarily insectivorous, feeding on a diverse array of invertebrates including beetles, caterpillars, spiders, and other arthropods, which it gleans meticulously from foliage and bark.
Primarily diurnal, the Tenggara Whistler is typically observed actively foraging during the cooler parts of the day, often becoming less conspicuous during midday heat. It usually forages solitarily or in pairs, exhibiting a rather retiring nature and rarely joining mixed-species flocks. Its fora...
The Tenggara Whistler is endemic to the Lesser Sunda Islands in Indonesia, with its primary distribution encompassing islands such as Sumbawa, Flores, Lomblen, Alor, Wetar, Timor, Savu, and Roti. It is a resident species throughout its range, exhibiting no known migratory patterns. While generall...
Least Concern
- The Tenggara Whistler was once classified as a subspecies of the widespread Golden Whistler, but its unique vocalizations and genetic markers led to its recognition as a distinct species. - Its scientific name, 'calliope,' pays homage to Calliope, the Greek Muse of epic poetry, reflecting the s...