The bare-throated whistler is a species of bird in the family Pachycephalidae. It is endemic to the Lesser Sundas.
Region
Lesser Sunda Islands
Typical Environment
Found in seasonally dry monsoon forests, wooded hillsides, secondary forest, and forest edges across parts of the Lesser Sundas. It forages from understory to midstory, often within tangles and along edges where insects are abundant. The species tolerates mosaic landscapes with scattered trees and regrowth, provided some continuous canopy remains. It is generally absent from completely open habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This Lesser Sundas endemic whistler is named for its small patch of bare skin on the throat, which is shown during displays and while singing. It delivers clear, ringing whistles that carry far through monsoon woodland. The species adapts reasonably well to secondary growth and forest edges but still relies on wooded habitats.
Temperament
secretive but vocal
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs, maintaining territories in suitable woodland. Cup-shaped nests are placed in forks or dense foliage, and both parents participate in care. Often joins mixed-species flocks outside the breeding season but remains relatively inconspicuous.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, ringing whistles and mellow phrases, often repeated from a prominent perch. Calls include sharper contact notes and scolds when disturbed.
Plumage
Compact whistler with olive-brown upperparts and paler, buffy to yellowish underparts; head slightly greyer-toned. Throat shows a small bare-skinned area, often most conspicuous during display. Plumage is smooth and unbarred, with a neat, tidy appearance typical of whistlers.
Diet
Primarily feeds on insects and other small arthropods, gleaned from leaves, twigs, and bark. It occasionally hawks short distances to snatch flying prey. Small fruits may be taken opportunistically when available.
Preferred Environment
Forages in understory to mid-canopy of monsoon forest, edges, and secondary growth. Frequently works along vine tangles and sunny gaps where insect activity is high.
