The Bagobo babbler or Bagobo robin is a monotypic species of bird with its taxonomy undergoing numerous changes and is currently classified as Muscicapidae or an old world flycatcher. It is endemic to the Philippines, only found on Mindanao. It was once deemed "unquestionably the Philippines most secretive bird" by ornithologist Robert Kennedy. Its habitat is in moist montane forests up to 2,030 meters above sea level. It is named after the Bagobo tribe.
Region
Mindanao, Philippines
Typical Environment
Occurs in moist montane and mossy forests, favoring dense, shadowy understory with abundant vine tangles and saplings. It keeps close to the forest floor along ravines, stream gullies, and steep slopes. The species tolerates lightly disturbed forest but avoids open edges and degraded secondary growth. It forages in interior forest where canopy cover is continuous and humidity is high. Records are from several mountain ranges across Mindanao.
Altitude Range
500–2030 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the Bagobo robin, this elusive bird is the sole member of its genus and has bounced between babbler and flycatcher families as taxonomy has been revised. It is endemic to Mindanao in the Philippines and is notoriously secretive, more often heard than seen in dense understory. The species was named in reference to the Bagobo people of Mindanao. It keeps low to the ground in mossy montane forest and is highly specialized for life in thick vegetation.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and close to cover
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks in the understory. It forages close to the ground, flicking its tail and moving mouse-like through tangles. Nesting is presumed low in dense vegetation; breeding behavior is poorly documented but likely involves discreet cup nests and biparental care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of soft, high-pitched whistles and thin trills delivered from concealed perches. Calls include sharp tik or tsip notes used for contact and alarm. Vocalizations carry only a short distance in dense foliage.
