The Bornean bristlehead, also variously known as the bristled shrike, bald-headed crow or the bald-headed wood-shrike, is the only member of the passerine family Pityriasidae and genus Pityriasis. This enigmatic and vulnerable species is endemic to the southeast Asian island of Borneo, where it lives in small groups in the rainforest canopy.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Endemic to the island of Borneo, occurring in Malaysia (Sabah and Sarawak), Brunei, and Indonesia (Kalimantan). It favors primary lowland and hill dipterocarp forests and tall secondary forests, especially in the upper canopy and emergent zones. The species is most often detected in undisturbed interiors but can persist in selectively logged forests with substantial canopy continuity. It moves through crowns of large trees, often along ridges and riverine forest corridors.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This is the sole member of the family Pityriasidae, making it one of Borneo’s most distinctive passerines. It forages high in the rainforest canopy in small, noisy groups and is occasionally seen with mixed-species flocks. The species is highly sensitive to forest loss and fragmentation, serving as an indicator of intact lowland rainforest. Its bristly, brightly colored head gives the bird its name and a striking appearance.
1838 drawing
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short, direct flights between canopy crowns with strong wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically travels in small family groups of 3–10 birds, keeping to high canopy levels. It may associate with mixed-species flocks while foraging. Nesting biology is poorly known, but pairs are thought to maintain small territories within extensive forest.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud, nasal, and ringing, carrying far through the canopy. Calls include sharp notes and chatter exchanged among group members. It frequently vocalizes while moving between treetops.
