The Melanesian whistler or Vanuatu whistler, is a species of passerine bird in the whistler family Pachycephalidae. It is found on the Loyalty Islands, Vanuatu, and Vanikoro in the far south-eastern Solomons.
Region
Southwest Pacific (Melanesia)
Typical Environment
Occurs on the Loyalty Islands (New Caledonia), across much of Vanuatu, and on Vanikoro in the far south‑eastern Solomon Islands. It favors forested habitats, including primary and mature secondary rainforest, as well as coastal forest, woodland edges, and well‑treed plantations. It readily uses regrowth and village groves where canopy cover persists. On smaller islands it can be found from coastal thickets into foothill forest.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the Vanuatu whistler, this island songbird is part of the diverse golden whistler complex. It varies subtly in plumage between islands but is best known for bright yellow underparts and a crisp, ringing song. It inhabits a range of wooded habitats from primary forest to village gardens. The species is generally common where suitable forest remains.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile, direct dashes through forest
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, defending territories year‑round. Nests are small cup nests placed in forks or suspended from slender branches. Both sexes likely share incubation and chick‑rearing duties, as in other Pachycephala.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Loud, clear, ringing whistles delivered in short phrases, often repeated from a concealed perch. Calls include sharp chips and mellow piping notes used in contact and alarm.
Plumage
Compact whistler with robust build; males typically show clean white throat contrasting with a darker head and olive upperparts, and bright yellow underparts. Females are duller, mostly olive-brown above with buffy to yellowish underparts and a paler throat. Subtle island-to-island variation occurs in tone and extent of head markings.
Diet
Primarily feeds on insects and other small arthropods such as beetles, caterpillars, and spiders. Gleans methodically from foliage and branches and occasionally sallies to catch flying prey. Will supplement with small fruits and berries when available, especially in secondary growth and edges.
Preferred Environment
Forages in understory to mid‑canopy of forest and well‑wooded gardens. Frequently works along edges, clearings, and along forest trails where prey is accessible.
