Lalage leucopygialis
The White-rumped Triller (Lalage leucopygialis) is a striking passerine endemic to the Philippines, renowned for the male's contrasting black and white plumage. Males are glossy black on the head and upperparts, with a brilliant white rump and underparts, and distinct white wing-bars against black wings. Females are somewhat duller, with greyish-brown upperparts and a less pronounced white rump. Measuring approximately 16-18 cm in length, it is a medium-sized bird belonging to the Cuckooshrik...
This species primarily inhabits tropical lowland forests, forest edges, secondary growth, scrubland, cultivated areas, and gardens, typically up to elevations of around 1,000 meters.
Their diet consists mainly of insects, including caterpillars, beetles, and ants, supplemented with small amounts of fruit.
White-rumped Trillers are diurnal birds, usually observed singly or in pairs, though they may occasionally join mixed-species foraging flocks. They are active foragers, gleaning insects from foliage in the canopy and mid-story, and sometimes sallying out to catch flying prey. Males are highly ter...
The White-rumped Triller is endemic to the Philippines, where it is a widespread and common resident across many of the archipelago's major islands. Its breeding range encompasses virtually all suitable habitats from Luzon in the north to Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago in the south. This speci...
Least Concern
- The scientific name 'leucopygialis' literally translates from Greek to 'white-rumped', perfectly describing one of its most prominent features. - It is one of several 'triller' species in its genus, named for the male's characteristic, often rapid and melodic, trilling song. - Unlike many cucko...