The greater ground robin is a species of bird in the family Petroicidae. It is found in New Guinea.
Region
New Guinea Highlands
Typical Environment
Inhabits mossy montane and upper montane forests, especially areas with dense understory, fallen logs, and rich leaf litter. Often found along forest floor edges, shaded gullies, and near treefall gaps where invertebrates are abundant. Prefers intact primary forest but may occur in older secondary growth if ground cover is thick. It tends to remain close to cover and rarely ventures into open areas.
Altitude Range
1600–3200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A shy, ground-dwelling robin of New Guinea’s montane forests, it forages quietly in leaf litter and dense understory. Despite its size among robins, it is often overlooked due to its plain, earthy plumage and secretive habits. It is typically encountered alone or in pairs and is resident year-round in highland habitats.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low to the ground
Social Behavior
Usually seen alone or in pairs maintaining small territories on the forest floor. Pairs are likely monogamous, remaining together year-round. Nesting is thought to involve a cup of moss and rootlets placed low, close to the ground or on banks, with both parents attending the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of soft, clear, whistled phrases delivered from low perches within dense cover. Calls include sharp ticking notes used for contact and alarm. Vocalizations carry poorly through thick vegetation, matching its secretive habits.
Plumage
Plain, dark brown to olive-brown overall with slightly paler underparts; wings and tail similarly dusky. Lacks bold patterning and appears uniformly earthy-toned, aiding camouflage on the forest floor.
Diet
Feeds mainly on ground-dwelling invertebrates such as beetles, ants, spiders, and other arthropods. It picks and probes among leaf litter, turning debris to uncover prey. Occasionally takes small worms or other soft-bodied prey. Foraging is methodical rather than rapid.
Preferred Environment
Forages on shaded forest floors with deep leaf litter and plentiful logs and root tangles. Often works along trails, fallen trunks, and gully edges where invertebrates concentrate.
