The olive-backed flowerpecker is a species of bird in the family Dicaeidae. It is endemic to the Philippines. Its natural habitat is tropical moist lowland forest. This species was formerly placed in the genus Prionochilus.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs in the Philippines, where it inhabits tropical moist lowland forests and forest edges. It frequents the mid- to upper canopy, including secondary growth, riverine forest, and partially disturbed habitats. It may venture into plantations and wooded gardens when fruiting shrubs and mistletoes are available. Its presence is tied to fruit resources, especially mistletoe patches.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A tiny canopy forager, the olive-backed flowerpecker is endemic to the Philippines and specializes in mistletoe berries, playing an important role in seed dispersal. It also takes small insects and nectar, making it a versatile feeder. Some authorities have shifted its placement between Prionochilus and Dicaeum, but it is widely treated in Prionochilus today.
Temperament
active and alert
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, and often joins mixed-species flocks in the canopy. Builds a small, purse-like hanging nest from plant fibers and spider silk, suspended from foliage. Both parents typically attend the nest.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High-pitched, thin tsee and tsip calls delivered in quick sequences. Song is a short, tinkling series of notes that can be easily overlooked against insect noise.
Plumage
Plain olive upperparts with paler, grayish to buff underparts; overall smooth, compact plumage with a neat appearance.
Diet
Primarily consumes small fruits, especially mistletoe berries, swallowing them whole and dispersing seeds. Also takes tiny figs and other soft berries. Supplements diet with nectar and small arthropods gleaned from foliage and twigs.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in the mid- to upper canopy, at forest edges, and in secondary growth where fruiting shrubs and mistletoes are common. Will use semi-open habitats and gardens when suitable fruiting plants are present.
