The green-breasted pitta is a species of bird in the family Pittidae. It is one of only two Pitta species in Africa, and is found in deep forest of the tropics.
Region
West and Central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland to mid-elevation tropical moist forests, including primary and mature secondary forest. Prefers dense understory with ample leaf litter for foraging, often near fallen logs and thickets. Found from southeastern Nigeria and Cameroon through Gabon, Congo, Central African Republic, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to western Uganda. It is generally patchy and local, with presence tied to intact forest blocks.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The green-breasted pitta is one of only two pitta species found in Africa and is famed among birders for its elusive, ground-dwelling habits. It inhabits dense tropical forests where it is most detectable at dawn by its clear, whistled song. In Uganda, especially around Kibale Forest, it is a sought-after specialty, often seen during the breeding season when males call from low perches.
Temperament
secretive and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; low, direct flights between cover
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, maintaining territories on the forest floor. Builds a domed nest low in vegetation or near the ground. Likely monogamous, with breeding activity peaking around the rainy season when males vocalize at dawn from low perches.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A clear, two- to three-noted whistle, often rendered as a ringing pee-peeuu, delivered at dawn and early morning. Calls are pure-toned, carrying well through dense forest and repeated at intervals from semi-concealed perches.
Plumage
Compact, short-tailed bird with bright green upperparts and buff underparts highlighted by an emerald-green breast patch and a reddish lower belly/vent. Head shows contrasting patterning with a dark mask and paler eyebrow, and the wings have bluish-green tones.
Diet
Feeds mainly on invertebrates such as ants, beetles, termites, earthworms, and snails gleaned from leaf litter. Will probe soft soil and flip leaves with its bill to uncover hidden prey. Occasionally takes small vertebrates like tiny frogs when available.
Preferred Environment
Forages on the shaded forest floor in dense understory, especially along trails, fallen logs, and moist gullies. Often selects areas with deep leaf litter and minimal disturbance.
