The Banggai cicadabird is a passerine bird in the family Campephagidae that is found on the Banggai Islands off the east coast of Sulawesi, Indonesia. It was formerly considered to be conspecific with the common cicadabird, now renamed the Sahul cicadabird.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
This species is restricted to the Banggai archipelago, inhabiting primary and secondary lowland and hill forests. It frequents forest edges, selectively logged areas, and tall secondary growth, provided a multi-layered canopy remains. Birds are most often encountered in the mid- to upper canopy, where they move methodically along branches. It can occur in lightly wooded gardens or agroforests near intact forest but is uncommon far from substantial tree cover.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 900 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A member of the cuckooshrike family (Campephagidae), the Banggai cicadabird is confined to the Banggai Islands off eastern Sulawesi, Indonesia. It was formerly treated as conspecific with the common (now Sahul) cicadabird, but vocal and morphological differences support its recognition as a distinct island endemic. It forages high in the canopy and often joins mixed-species flocks. Ongoing habitat loss on small islands may pose local risks despite its inconspicuous habits.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between canopy gaps
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, sometimes accompanying mixed-species flocks in the canopy. Pairs are likely monogamous and maintain small territories within suitable forest patches. Nests are presumed to be small, neat cups placed high on horizontal branches, as in related cicadabirds.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include dry, insect-like trills and buzzes interspersed with sharp 'chik' notes. Calls carry through the canopy but are subdued, aiding in remaining inconspicuous.
Plumage
Males are mostly slate-grey to dark grey above with paler grey underparts and a slightly darker head; females are browner-grey with faint streaking or mottling below. Both sexes have smooth, close-lying plumage suited to canopy foraging. The bill is slender with a slight hook at the tip.
Diet
Feeds primarily on large insects such as cicadas, beetles, caterpillars, and orthopterans, gleaned from foliage and bark. It also sallies briefly to snatch flying insects. Occasional small fruits or berries may be taken opportunistically, especially when insect prey is scarce.
Preferred Environment
Forages mainly in the mid- to upper canopy of mature forest and tall secondary growth. It often works along branches and outer foliage, sometimes joining mixed flocks to exploit disturbed insects.
