The black-chinned robin is a species of bird in the Australasian robin family Petroicidae. It is the only species placed in the genus Leucophantes. It is found in northern New Guinea where its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
Region
Northern New Guinea
Typical Environment
Occupies subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests across the northern fringe of New Guinea, including primary forest and well-developed secondary growth. Most frequently found in dense understory, vine tangles, and along shaded forest streams. It keeps to shadowed thickets and lower strata, where it moves deliberately between perches. Local presence depends on intact forest cover and structural complexity.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This shy understory robin of northern New Guinea favors dense, humid lowland forests. It often forages quietly near the ground and may join mixed-species insectivorous flocks. Taxonomically, it has been placed in its own genus Leucophantes by some authorities, reflecting distinctive morphology and plumage. Its soft, high-pitched notes can be hard to locate in thick vegetation.
Temperament
solitary and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between low perches
Social Behavior
Typically encountered singly or in pairs that maintain small territories within dense understory. Nests are small cups placed low in shrubs or saplings; both adults likely share incubation and chick-feeding duties. Occasionally joins mixed-species foraging parties but remains inconspicuous.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of thin, high-pitched whistles delivered from concealed perches. Calls include soft tseep notes and short trills, easily absorbed by forest background noise.
