The olive whistler or olivaceous whistler, is a species of bird in the family Pachycephalidae, the whistlers, that is native to southeastern Australia.
Region
Southeast Australia
Typical Environment
Occurs in cool temperate rainforests, wet sclerophyll forests, and dense montane thickets of southeastern mainland Australia and Tasmania. Prefers gullies, ferny understory, and vine tangles where cover is abundant. On the mainland it is most frequent in higher elevation forests, while in Tasmania it can also be found nearer to sea level in extensive rainforest. It often shifts downslope in winter, appearing in foothill forests and sheltered valleys.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1600 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The olive whistler is a shy forest songbird of southeastern Australia and Tasmania, noted for its rich, mournful whistles that carry through dense understory. It often performs altitudinal movements, descending from high country to lower elevations in cooler months. Its sturdy, slightly hooked bill helps it glean insects from foliage and bark, and it will also take small berries in season.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct dashes between cover
Social Behavior
Usually seen alone or in pairs, maintaining territories in dense understory. Pairs are likely monogamous during the breeding season, with cup nests placed in low shrubs or ferny tangles. Both adults participate in provisioning the young, keeping close to cover.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Delivers rich, fluted whistles that are mellow and far-carrying, often given from a concealed perch. Phrases are repeated and can sound plaintive or mournful, cutting through the ambient forest noise.
Plumage
Dull olive-brown upperparts with paler olive to buff underparts; head and upper breast grayish with a paler, sometimes whitish throat. Tail often slightly rufous-tinged with subtle contrasts. Feathers are smooth and close, giving a sleek, compact look.
Diet
Takes a wide range of insects, spiders, and other small arthropods gleaned from foliage, twigs, and bark. Occasionally hawks short distances for prey disturbed in the understory. Supplements its diet with small berries and soft fruits when available.
Preferred Environment
Forages in dense understory, along fern fronds, vine tangles, and low branches in wet forests. Frequently works methodically through sheltered gullies and along forest edges with thick cover.
