The mountain robin, also known as subalpine robin, alpine robin or cloud-forest robin, is a species of bird in the family Petroicidae. It is found sparsely throughout the New Guinea Highlands.
Region
New Guinea Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily along the central cordillera of New Guinea in high-elevation habitats. It frequents subalpine shrublands, mossy montane forest edges, forest clearings, and stunted, windswept thickets near and above the treeline. Birds are most often encountered in dense vegetation with abundant moss and understory cover. They may also use alpine meadows interspersed with shrubs for foraging. Distribution spans both the Papua New Guinea and Indonesian (Papuan) sectors of the highlands.
Altitude Range
2200–3700 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called subalpine, alpine, or cloud-forest robin, this small Petroicidae bird is confined to the New Guinea Highlands. It favors cool, high-elevation scrub and mossy forest edges near the tree line. Often confiding, it perches low and makes short sallies for insects. Its subtle plumage helps it blend into dense subalpine vegetation.
Temperament
confiding and quiet
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, bounding flights
Social Behavior
Typically found singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Pairs maintain small territories in dense subalpine vegetation. Nesting is likely in low shrubs or sheltered forks with a neat cup nest, with both parents tending the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is soft and high-pitched, a brief series of thin whistles or tinkling phrases delivered from a low perch. Calls include sharp tik notes and quiet seep contact calls, often given while foraging.
