The black-sided robin, also known as the pied robin, is a species of bird in the family Petroicidae. It is widespread throughout New Guinea. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
Region
New Guinea
Typical Environment
Occurs widely across the lowland and foothill rainforests of New Guinea, including both Papua New Guinea and Indonesian Papua. It favors dense, humid forest with a well-developed understorey and vine tangles. The species is most often found along forest edges, stream margins, and in secondary growth adjoining primary forest. It generally avoids open country and high montane habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 900 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the pied robin, this species is a New Guinea endemic of shaded lowland rainforests. It often forages quietly in the understorey, making short sallies from low perches. The bold black-and-white pattern, especially the dark flanks, helps with identification in dim forest light. Its steady presence across much of New Guinea means it is not currently considered threatened.
Temperament
quiet and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through undergrowth
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups within well-defined territories. Builds a small cup nest of fibers and moss bound with spider silk, typically placed low to mid-level in dense vegetation. Both parents are involved in incubation and feeding of the chicks.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Soft, thin whistles and high-pitched tseet notes delivered at intervals from low perches. The song is modest in volume but carries in still forest, often repeated in simple phrases.
Plumage
Striking black-and-white robin with glossy to sooty-black upperparts and sides, contrasting with a white throat, breast, and belly; often shows a small white wing bar.
Diet
Primarily feeds on insects and other small arthropods such as beetles, ants, spiders, and caterpillars. It gleans prey from foliage, vines, and the forest floor, and will make short sallies to snatch moving insects. Occasional small berries may be taken but are a minor part of the diet.
Preferred Environment
Forages in shaded understorey, vine tangles, and along stream edges within intact or lightly disturbed rainforest. Often hunts from low, concealed perches and along fallen logs and leaf litter.
