The Bornean swamp babbler is a species of bird in the ground babbler family Pellorneidae that is found in northern and central Borneo and Banggi Island. It was formerly considered to be a subspecies of the white-chested babbler, now renamed the Malayan swamp babbler.
Region
Borneo
Typical Environment
Occurs in northern and central Borneo, including Banggi Island off Sabah. Most often found in lowland peat-swamp forests, flooded riverine forests, and dense secondary growth along streams. It keeps to shaded understory with tangled vines, palms, and bamboo near water. It rarely ventures into open areas, preferring continuous cover and damp leaf litter.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This skulking babbler keeps to dense, wet undergrowth and is much more often heard than seen. It was split from the white-chested babbler complex; the mainland form is now called the Malayan swamp babbler, while the Bornean population is treated separately. It frequents peat-swamp, flooded riverine forest, and thickets along slow streams where it slips through tangles close to the ground.
Temperament
skulking and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and direct through cover
Social Behavior
Typically seen in pairs or small family groups moving quietly through thickets. Nests are placed low, often near water, built from leaves and fibers in dense vegetation. Both parents attend the nest and feed the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, repetitive series of clear whistles and chipping notes delivered from concealed perches. Calls include sharp ticks and thin seep notes used to keep contact in dense cover.
