The leaflitter babbler is a species of bird in the ground babbler family Pellorneidae that is found in northern and central Borneo. It was formerly considered to be a subspecies of the short-tailed babbler, now renamed the mourning babbler.
Region
Borneo
Typical Environment
Occurs in northern and central Borneo, inhabiting primary and mature secondary lowland and hill dipterocarp forests. It stays close to the forest floor, foraging in dense understory and along shaded trails and stream edges. The species favors areas with deep leaf litter and tangled vegetation where it can skulk and flip leaves. It is generally absent from heavily degraded forest and open habitats, persisting best in large, relatively undisturbed tracts.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A shy, ground-loving babbler that spends most of its time rummaging through leaf litter for hidden invertebrates. It was recently split from the short-tailed (now mourning) babbler complex and is restricted to Borneo. Pairs often keep contact with soft calls and may duet from dense understory cover. Its short tail and low, mouse-like movements help it disappear quickly when disturbed.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low to the ground
Social Behavior
Usually found singly, in pairs, or small family groups. Forages quietly on the forest floor, flicking and tossing leaves to expose prey. Nests are placed low in dense vegetation or near the ground, with both parents involved in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, mournful series of clear whistles and piping notes delivered from concealed perches. Pairs may engage in brief duets, with calls carrying surprisingly well through dense understory.
