The North Moluccan pitta is a species of the pitta. It was considered a subspecies of the red-bellied pitta. It is endemic to Indonesia where it occurs on the northern Moluccas. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Northern Moluccas
Typical Environment
Occurs on islands of the northern Moluccas, notably Halmahera and nearby islands, in primary and well-structured secondary lowland rainforest. It favors shaded, humid forest floors with thick leaf litter, gullies, and streamside thickets. The species can persist in selectively logged forest if understory remains dense, but it avoids heavily degraded open areas. It is mostly a bird of the forest interior and is seldom seen in plantations except near intact forest edges.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 900 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Formerly treated as part of the Red-bellied Pitta complex, the North Moluccan pitta is now recognized as a distinct species restricted to the northern Moluccas. It is a shy, ground-dwelling bird that relies on dense leaf litter and understory cover. Its clear, mournful whistles carry far through the forest, often betraying its presence before it is seen. Like other pittas, it plays a role in controlling invertebrate populations on the forest floor.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats close to the ground
Social Behavior
Usually encountered alone or in pairs, maintaining territories on the forest floor. Nests are dome-shaped structures hidden in dense understory or on banks, with both parents participating in care. Breeding timing likely follows local rainfall patterns, with increased vocal activity at dawn.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A clear, whistled series of notes, typically a mellow two- or three-note phrase that carries through dense forest. Calls include soft clucks and sharp whistles used in contact and alarm.
