The New Caledonian whistler is a species of bird in the family Pachycephalidae. It is endemic to New Caledonia.
Region
Southwest Pacific (New Caledonia)
Typical Environment
Found across New Caledonia’s main island (Grande Terre) and select nearby islets, inhabiting humid forests, forest edges, and maquis shrubland. It frequents understory to mid-canopy strata, often along trails, stream margins, and regenerating vegetation. The species tolerates lightly modified habitats, including plantations and large gardens near forest.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The New Caledonian whistler is a forest songbird known for its clear, ringing whistles that carry through the canopy. Endemic to New Caledonia, it helps control insect populations and can persist in secondary growth and garden edges. Pairs defend small territories year-round and build neat cup nests in shrubs or low trees.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs, maintaining small territories throughout the year. Monogamous pairs construct a neat cup nest in forks of shrubs or small trees; both parents participate in care. Occasionally joins mixed-species flocks while foraging along forest edges.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A clear, rich series of melodious whistles and piping notes, often delivered from a mid-canopy perch. Phrases are repeated with slight variations, and males respond to neighbors with counter-singing during breeding periods.
Plumage
Compact, sturdy whistler with olive to greenish upperparts and bright yellow underparts; throat often paler. Females are duller with greyer-brown tones and a more subdued yellow wash below. Both sexes have a stout, slightly hooked bill and fairly plain wings.
Diet
Feeds primarily on insects and other small arthropods, gleaned from leaves, twigs, and bark. It also makes short sallies to snatch flying prey and will occasionally take small berries, especially in the non-breeding season. Foraging is deliberate, inspecting foliage methodically in the understory and mid-story.
Preferred Environment
Favors forest edges, regenerating scrub, and the lower to mid-levels of humid forest. Often forages along paths, streams, and gaps where prey is easier to spot.
