The Moluccan monarch is a species of bird in the family Monarchidae. It is found in Indonesia. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Region
Maluku Islands (Moluccas), Wallacea
Typical Environment
Occurs in subtropical and tropical moist lowland and lower montane forests, including primary forest, secondary growth, forest edges, and riverine corridors. Most often found in the mid-story and subcanopy where it gleans and sallies for prey. It can persist in selectively logged forest and older regrowth but is less common in heavily degraded habitats. Frequently recorded along forest trails and edges near villages that retain substantial tree cover.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Moluccan monarch is a forest-dwelling monarch flycatcher endemic to Indonesia’s Maluku Islands. It forages actively for insects by sallying from perches in the mid-story and often joins mixed-species flocks. The species tolerates lightly disturbed and secondary forest, which helps it persist where selective logging has occurred. Taxonomically, it has been placed in both Monarcha and Carterornis by different authorities.
Temperament
active and alert
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent sallies from perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Regularly joins mixed-species foraging flocks with drongos, fantails, and other insectivores. Nests are typically neat cup nests placed on horizontal branches in the mid-story, with both parents participating in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, thin whistles interspersed with sharper chipping notes. Calls include scolding chatter when disturbed and softer contact notes within pairs.
