The hooded butcherbird is a species of passerine bird in the family Artamidae. It is found in New Guinea. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest.
Region
New Guinea and nearby islands
Typical Environment
Occurs widely across lowland and hill forests of New Guinea, including both Papua New Guinea and Indonesian New Guinea, and some adjacent satellite islands. It favours primary and secondary moist forests, forest edges, riverine gallery forests, and mangroves. The species also adapts to human-modified landscapes with tall trees, such as village gardens and plantations. It is generally absent from open treeless habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The hooded butcherbird is a striking black-and-white songbird of New Guinea’s forests, known for its rich, fluty calls. Like other butcherbirds, it uses a strong, hooked bill to take prey and may wedge food in crevices to tear it apart. It readily occupies forest edges and gardens, making it a familiar voice near villages. Pairs are territorial and often duet.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct dashes between perches
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs that maintain territories year-round; small family groups may occur. Nests are open cups placed high in trees, and both sexes attend the young. Courtship and pair bonding include mutual calling and display perching.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Rich, fluty whistles and melodious phrases, often delivered from an exposed perch at dawn. Pairs may duet, and phrases can be varied and far-carrying, forming a prominent part of the forest soundscape.
