The Bornean whistler or Bornean mountain whistler, is a species of bird in the family Pachycephalidae. It is endemic to the island of Borneo.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Endemic to the island of Borneo, occurring in the highlands of Sabah and Sarawak (Malaysia), Brunei, and Indonesian Kalimantan. It inhabits montane evergreen and mossy forests, forest edges, and mature secondary growth. Birds typically use the midstory to subcanopy, occasionally dropping lower along sheltered ravines and ridgelines. It tolerates selective logging if sufficient canopy and understory structure remain.
Altitude Range
900–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the Bornean mountain whistler, this species is confined to the highlands of Borneo. It favors cool, mossy montane forests where its clear, piping whistles carry far. It often forages with mixed-species flocks, moving methodically through the midstory. Despite its bright yellow underside, it can be surprisingly inconspicuous in dense foliage.
Temperament
alert and active, somewhat skulking in dense foliage
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct, low flights between perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, often joining mixed-species foraging flocks. Pairs maintain small territories and are likely seasonally monogamous. The nest is a small cup placed in a fork or suspended from slender branches in well-covered sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, mellow whistles delivered in short phrases, often repeated from a midstory perch. Calls include sharp chips and soft contact notes when moving with flocks.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with a contrasting greyish hood and bright yellow underparts; feathers are smooth and unbarred. The throat and breast are clean yellow, blending to slightly paler belly. Wings and tail are darker olive without wing bars.
Diet
Primarily takes insects and other small arthropods such as beetles, caterpillars, and spiders. It gleans methodically from leaves and twigs and will sally short distances to snatch prey. Small berries or other soft fruits may be taken opportunistically when available.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in the midstory to subcanopy of montane forest, especially along edges, gaps, and moss-laden branches. It often follows mixed-species flocks to exploit disturbed insects and shared foraging opportunities.
