The large wren-babbler is a species of bird in the family Pellorneidae. It is found in the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra and Java. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Sundaland (Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, and Java)
Typical Environment
It inhabits subtropical and tropical moist lowland and foothill forests, keeping close to the ground in dense thickets and bamboo. The species frequents shaded ravines and stream edges where leaf litter accumulates. It avoids open areas and heavily disturbed habitats, persisting best in large forest blocks with intact understory. In selectively logged forests it may persist locally if ground cover remains dense.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Despite its name, the large wren-babbler is a shy forest floor skulk with notably big feet and a short tail, moving mouse-like through dense undergrowth. It favors lowland evergreen forests in Sundaland and is often detected by its loud, whistled calls rather than seen. Ongoing deforestation and fragmentation of lowland forests have placed pressure on its populations.
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low to the ground
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, foraging quietly through leaf litter. Nests are typically placed low, often near the ground in dense cover. Pairs maintain small territories and communicate with clear whistles and soft contact calls.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A clear, ringing series of whistles delivered from low perches or hidden within thickets, often repeated in steady phrases. Calls include sharp chips and soft contact notes while foraging.
