The black-sided flowerpecker, also known as the Bornean flowerpecker, is a species of bird in the family Dicaeidae. It is endemic to the island of Borneo, where it is found in the mountains, primarily above 1,000 m (3,300 ft) in elevation. The species is sexually dimorphic. The male has glossy blue-black upperparts, with a scarlet throat and breast, a dark grey upper belly, olive flanks, a white lower belly, and a buffy vent and undertail coverts. The female is olive-green above and greyish below, with buffy flanks and a whitish throat. It inhabits a range of forest habitats, including primary and secondary montane forest, kerangas forest, and scrub, and is also occasionally found in gardens. It feeds primarily on small fruits—particularly mistletoe berries—as well as seeds, nectar, and various invertebrates. It builds a nest of moss, camouflaged on the outside with lichens and lined with the pith of tree ferns. The International Union for Conservation of Nature rates it as a species of least concern. Though its numbers have not been quantified, the black-sided flowerpecker is said to be common throughout much of its range, and any declines are not thought to be precipitous. However, destruction of forest for palm plantations may impact it.
Region
Borneo
Typical Environment
Occurs in the mountains of Borneo, chiefly above 1,000 m where montane forest predominates. It uses primary and secondary montane forest, kerangas (heath) forest, forest edge, and shrublands, and may venture into highland gardens. Often forages in the canopy and along forest edges where mistletoes are abundant. It is locally common in suitable habitat but patchy where forest is fragmented.
Altitude Range
1000–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This tiny fruit specialist is confined to Borneo’s montane zones and shows striking sexual dimorphism. It is an important disperser of mistletoe seeds, often swallowing berries whole and wiping sticky seeds onto branches. Nests are cleverly camouflaged with moss and lichens and lined with soft pith. Although currently assessed as Least Concern, ongoing conversion of montane foothill forests to plantations may affect local populations.
Temperament
active and alert
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks along montane forest edges. Builds a neat, camouflaged nest of moss and lichens lined with tree fern pith, placed in foliage or on slender branches. Breeding behavior is typical of small passerines, with both sexes involved in nesting activities.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High, thin tseep notes and short, sharp chips delivered from canopy perches. Song phrases are simple and repetitive, often interspersed with quick contact calls while foraging.
