The black-capped robin is a species of bird in the family Petroicidae native to New Guinea. The black-capped robin has been split from the ashy robin.
Region
Northeastern New Guinea mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane rainforest and mossy forest, favoring dense understory, vine tangles, and shaded gullies. It is most often found along forested ridges and stream edges where leaf litter and low perches are abundant. The species tolerates lightly disturbed forest but is scarce in open or heavily logged areas. It is a resident bird within suitable habitat, with small, well-defined territories.
Altitude Range
800–2200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The black-capped robin is a shy forest robin of northeastern New Guinea’s montane rainforests, recently split from the ashy robin. It forages quietly in the dim understory, often perching low and sallying to pick insects from foliage or the forest floor. Its soft, whistled song carries only short distances, helping pairs keep contact in dense cover.
Temperament
shy and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between low perches
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs that hold small territories. Nests are likely neat cup structures placed low in shrubs or ferns, with both adults provisioning the young. It occasionally joins mixed-species flocks but usually forages quietly on its own.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft series of thin, whistled notes delivered from a shaded perch, often repeated with brief pauses. Calls include faint 'tsip' or 'seet' contact notes used to maintain pair cohesion.
