The grey-breasted babbler is a species of bird in the family Pellorneidae. It is found in Brunei, Indonesia and Malaysia. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest and subtropical or tropical swampland. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Borneo
Typical Environment
Occurs across Borneo in Brunei, Malaysian Borneo (Sabah and Sarawak), and Indonesian Kalimantan. It inhabits primary and well-structured secondary lowland dipterocarp forest, peat swamp forest, and riverine or swamp thickets. The species keeps to dense understory, vine tangles, and thickets near water, seldom venturing into open areas. It is uncommon to locally fairly common where suitable understory remains intact.
Altitude Range
0–900 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A shy understory specialist of Borneo’s lowland and swamp forests, the grey-breasted babbler is most often detected by its soft, whistled calls rather than seen. It forages close to the ground, frequently in pairs or small groups, and may join mixed-species flocks. Its reliance on intact lowland forest and peat swamps makes it sensitive to logging and land conversion.
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through dense cover
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups moving through dense understory. Often associates with mixed-species flocks of babblers and other undergrowth birds. Nests low in shrubs or tangles, constructing a cup nest; presumed monogamous with both parents helping at the nest.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Soft, whistled phrases interspersed with low churrs and chatters, delivered from concealed perches. Pairs may duet, with responsive notes that carry softly through the understory.
