The cinnamon ibon is a species of bird endemic to the mountains of Mindanao in the Philippines. Monotypic within the genus Hypocryptadius, it is classified as a sparrow. Its natural habitat is tropical moist montane forests and mossy forests above 1,000 metres (3,300 ft).
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Restricted to the mountains of Mindanao, where it inhabits tropical montane and mossy forests. It favors dense, humid forest with abundant epiphytes, moss-covered branches, and mature canopy. Birds move through midstory to subcanopy levels, occasionally using forest edges and clearings with tall secondary growth. It is generally local but can be fairly common where suitable habitat persists.
Altitude Range
1000–2500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The cinnamon ibon is a high-elevation forest specialist found only in Mindanao, Philippines. Once thought to be a true sparrow, it is now placed in its own monotypic genus, reflecting its unique evolutionary history. It often joins mixed-species flocks, gleaning insects from mossy branches in the montane forest midstory.
An illustration by H. Goodchild (1906)
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often travels in small parties and readily joins mixed-species foraging flocks. Pairs or small groups move methodically along mossy branches, gleaning prey from epiphytes and bark. Nesting is presumed to occur in dense montane vegetation, with both adults likely participating in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of thin, high-pitched chips and soft trills, delivered from midstory perches. Contact calls are sharp and sparrow-like, aiding flock cohesion in dense foliage.
