The falcated wren-babbler is a species of bird in the family Pellorneidae. It is endemic to Palawan. Its natural habitat is tropical moist lowland forest. It is threatened by habitat loss
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Endemic to Palawan Island, where it occupies primary and well-structured secondary lowland evergreen forest with dense understory. It favors thickets, bamboo patches, and areas with deep leaf litter. Birds often keep close to the ground along gullies and stream edges where invertebrate prey is abundant. It avoids heavily degraded habitats and open areas, leading to a patchy distribution where forest remains.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Falcated Wren-babbler is a secretive forest floor specialist found only on Palawan in the Philippines. It skulkily forages in dense understory and leaf litter, making it easier to hear than to see. The name 'falcated' refers to sickle-like curvature in some wing feathers. Ongoing lowland forest loss on Palawan is the primary threat to this species.
A singing Falcated-wren babbler
A Falcated wren-babbler seen through dense foliage.
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, usually low to the ground
Social Behavior
Typically encountered singly or in pairs, sometimes with a dependent juvenile. Nests are well hidden close to the ground in dense vegetation. Both parents likely participate in care, and the species keeps to well-covered microhabitats.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of clear, whistled notes delivered in short series from within cover. Calls include thin, high-pitched peeps and soft chups, often the first hint of the bird’s presence.
