The eastern crested berrypecker is a species of bird in the family Paramythiidae. It is commonly found in the high montane forests and shrublands of New Guinea. There are two subspecies, Paramythia montium montium and Paramythia montium brevicauda. The former inhabits the eastern portion of the New Guinea Highlands while the latter can be found in the Huon Peninsula. The western crested berrypecker was formerly considered conspecific but was split from it in 2021.
Region
New Guinea Highlands
Typical Environment
Occupies upper montane and cloud forests, mossy forest edges, and high-elevation shrublands. It frequents fruiting trees and dense mid-story tangles, often along ridgelines and forest edges. The species is largely sedentary but may move locally with fruit availability. It commonly joins mixed-species foraging flocks in the canopy. Human-disturbed forest edges with fruiting shrubs can also be used.
Altitude Range
1,800–3,600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This high-montane songbird of New Guinea is notable for its prominent erectile crest and allegiance to fruiting trees. It inhabits cloud forests and shrublands, where it plays a role in seed dispersal. Two subspecies are recognized—P. m. montium and P. m. brevicauda—and the Western Crested Berrypecker was split from it in 2021. It often joins mixed-species flocks and can be surprisingly vocal in the canopy.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small groups, frequently joining mixed-species flocks in the canopy and mid-story. Forms stable pair bonds during the breeding season and defends a small territory around nest sites. Nests are typically placed in dense vegetation in montane forest.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Delivers a series of clear, thin whistles interspersed with tinkling notes. Calls are sharp contact chips used to keep groups together in dense foliage.
Plumage
Compact, crested passerine with dense, velvety plumage and a contrasting head pattern; the crest is often held erect.
Diet
Primarily consumes small fruits and berries, including those of montane shrubs and canopy trees. It also takes soft-bodied arthropods, especially when feeding young. By swallowing fruits whole, it aids in seed dispersal across the forest. Feeding is methodical, moving from fruiting tree to fruiting tree.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the canopy and mid-story of mossy montane forest, along forest edges, and in subalpine shrublands. Often concentrates where fruiting shrubs and trees are abundant, including along ridgelines and in small clearings.
