Region

Huon Peninsula, Papua New Guinea

Typical Environment

Occurs in hill and montane rainforests of the Huon Peninsula, favoring dense interior and edges of primary forest as well as mature secondary growth. It uses the mid-story to canopy but will descend to fruiting shrubs along ridges and gullies. Mossy forest and forest with rich fig and laurel resources are particularly important. It is generally local but can be fairly common where habitat is intact.

Altitude Range

600–2600 m

Climate Zone

Highland

Temperament

secretive and retiring

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats through dense forest

Social Behavior

Typically encountered singly or in pairs within dense forest. Catbirds are largely monogamous, and pairs may maintain small territories year-round. The nest is a deep cup placed in dense foliage, and both sexes may contribute to care.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Noted for cat-like wails and mewing calls interspersed with harsh, nasal notes. Also gives soft whistles and guttural churring from concealed perches, especially at dawn.

Diet

Primarily frugivorous, feeding on figs, laurels, and other fleshy fruits, thereby acting as an important seed disperser. Supplements diet with arthropods such as beetles and caterpillars, gleaned from foliage and branches. Occasionally takes small vertebrates or eggs when available.

Preferred Environment

Forages in mid-story to canopy, often at fruiting trees along ridges and forest edges. Will descend to understory shrubs when fruits are abundant and may join mixed-species flocks at fruiting sites.