The Black shama is a species of bird in the family Muscicapidae. It is endemic to the island of Cebu, Philippines where it is known locally as "Siloy".
Region
Central Visayas
Typical Environment
Restricted to remnant lowland and foothill forests of Cebu, often in limestone (karst) areas with dense understory. It occupies thickets, second-growth forest, and forest edges where tangles and vine-laden shrubs offer cover. The species prefers shady ravines and gulches with moist leaf litter for foraging. Although it can use degraded habitats with sufficient undergrowth, it depends on areas with continuous dense vegetation for breeding.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Known locally as the Siloy, the Black shama is a secretive forest bird found only on Cebu Island in the Philippines. It is famed for a rich, melodious song and often sings from dense cover. Habitat loss from deforestation and limestone quarrying is the principal threat, and local conservation efforts focus on protecting remaining forest fragments.
A Black shama featured on the 1992 Philippine stamp.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and agile through dense understory
Social Behavior
Typically found singly or in territorial pairs within dense forest cover. During breeding, pairs defend small territories and nest in concealed sites such as cavities, root tangles, or dense shrubs. Nesting involves a cup-like structure placed low and hidden within thick vegetation.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rich, fluty, and varied song delivered from concealed perches, often with whistles and trills. Capable of mimicry and improvisation, the song carries well through forest understory. Calls include sharp chips and soft contact notes when moving through cover.
Plumage
Male is entirely glossy black with a bluish sheen and a long, graduated tail; female is darker sooty-brown to blackish with slightly duller sheen. Feathers are sleek, with the tail appearing elongated and flowing. Overall appearance is uniformly dark without contrasting patches.
Diet
Primarily feeds on insects and other small invertebrates, including beetles, ants, grasshoppers, and spiders. It forages by hopping on or near the ground, flicking leaf litter, and gleaning from low branches. Short sallies are used to snatch prey from foliage or the forest floor. Occasionally takes small snails or other invertebrates when available.
Preferred Environment
Dense understory of lowland and foothill forest, especially in limestone ravines and thickets. Often forages along shaded trails, gullies, and forest edges where leaf litter accumulates. Requires dense cover for both foraging and safe retreat.
