The giant pitta is a species of bird in the family Pittidae.
Region
Sundaland (Borneo, Sumatra, Peninsular Malaysia)
Typical Environment
Occurs in primary and mature secondary evergreen rainforest with dense understory, often along shaded ravines and near streams. It favors forest floors with deep leaf litter and fallen logs for foraging. Present in lowland dipterocarp forests and foothill habitats, and can persist in selectively logged forest if cover remains dense. Typically avoids open or heavily degraded habitats.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The giant pitta is one of the largest members of the pitta family, a group of elusive, ground-dwelling forest birds. It is notoriously shy and more often heard than seen, giving rich, far-carrying whistles from deep cover. Its presence is a good indicator of intact lowland and hill rainforest with dense leaf litter. Habitat loss and fragmentation likely affect local populations.
Illustration by Gould & Richter
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low to the ground
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, maintaining territories in dense forest. Nests are typically domed structures placed close to the ground or on low banks, built from leaves and roots. Both parents likely share incubation and chick-rearing duties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives rich, mellow, far-carrying whistles, often a series of clear, descending notes delivered from hidden perches. Vocalizes most at dawn and dusk, with long pauses between phrases.
