The flame-templed babbler is a species of bird of the family Zosteropidae, in the genus Dasycrotapha. It is one of the most remarkable and distinctive birds with its complex head markings with orange crown tufts, black ears and yellow beak and face. It is endemic to the Philippines, where it is found on the islands of Panay and Negros. Its natural habitat is tropical moist lowland forest. It is threatened by habitat loss. Along with the Negros striped babbler, it is one of the two babbler species extremely sought after by birdwatchers on Negros.
Region
Western Visayas (Negros–Panay), Philippines
Typical Environment
It inhabits tropical moist lowland and foothill evergreen forests, including secondary growth and forest edges with dense understory. Birds forage from near ground level up to the mid-canopy, especially in thickets, vine tangles, and bamboo. It can occur along riparian corridors and in logged forest if sufficient undergrowth remains. The species is patchy and most frequent in larger forest blocks.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This striking babbler shows vivid orange crown tufts that it can raise when excited, offset by a black ear patch and yellowish face and bill. It often joins mixed-species flocks in the forest understory and midstory, where its quick, furtive movements can make it tricky to spot. Once widespread on Negros and Panay, it now persists mainly in remaining lowland and foothill forests due to extensive habitat loss.
Temperament
secretive and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through dense cover
Social Behavior
Typically found in pairs or small family groups and frequently joins mixed-species foraging flocks. Territorial during breeding, with pairs maintaining small home ranges in dense understory. Nest is a small cup placed low in shrubs or saplings, and both adults attend the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives thin, high-pitched whistles and buzzy trills, often delivered in short series. Calls include sharp scolding notes when alarmed, interspersed with softer contact chips within flocks.
