The Northern catbird is a species of bowerbird (Ptilonorhynchidae) which can be found in central-northern New Guinea.
Region
Northern New Guinea
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland and foothill rainforests of central-northern New Guinea, including Yapen (Jobi) Island and adjacent mainland forests. It favors primary and well-regenerated secondary forest, forest edges, and gallery forest along rivers. The species forages mainly in the mid-story to canopy, often around fruiting trees. It is generally shy and more often detected by voice than seen.
Altitude Range
0–1400 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A bowerbird of New Guinea, the Northern catbird is famed for its cat-like mewing calls. Unlike many bowerbirds, catbirds do not build elaborate bowers; males instead use simple display courts and vocal duets with mates. It is a largely canopy-dwelling frugivore that also takes insects and other small prey. The species was split from related New Guinea catbirds based on vocal and genetic differences.
Temperament
secretive but vocal
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides between trees
Social Behavior
Typically found singly or in pairs, maintaining territories in dense forest. Males maintain simple display courts rather than elaborate bowers and engage in vocal duets with females. Nests are bulky cups placed in dense foliage; the female undertakes most incubation.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Rich, cat-like mews and wails interspersed with harsh notes and clear whistles. Pairs often duet, producing antiphonal sequences that carry well through the forest.
