The pale cicadabird is a species of bird in the family Campephagidae. It is endemic to the Maluku Islands of Indonesia. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest and subtropical or tropical moist montane forest.
Region
Wallacea (eastern Indonesia)
Typical Environment
Occurs in subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests and montane forests across parts of the Maluku Islands. Prefers mature forest with a well-developed canopy but will also use edges, selectively logged areas, and older secondary growth. Typically forages in the mid to upper canopy, occasionally descending to subcanopy along ridges and clearings. Often associated with mixed-species flocks that move through fruiting or insect-rich trees.
Altitude Range
0–1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The pale cicadabird is a canopy-dwelling member of the cuckooshrike family (Campephagidae), confined to the Maluku Islands of Indonesia. It forages quietly among mid to upper forest levels and is often detected by its soft, whistled notes and insect-like calls. As with many cicadabirds, males tend to be greyer while females are browner and lightly barred, aiding camouflage. It tolerates some forest edge and secondary growth where tall trees remain.
Temperament
quiet and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct, level flight between canopy perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or family groups, and frequently joins mixed-species foraging flocks. Likely monogamous, placing a small cup nest on a horizontal branch high in the canopy. Both parents probably share incubation and chick-rearing duties, as in related cicadabirds.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives soft, clear whistles and short phrases interspersed with harsher, insect-like notes reminiscent of cicadas. Calls are often delivered from concealed perches and can be sporadic, increasing during the breeding season.
Plumage
Male generally pale grey with slightly darker wings and tail; female browner or buffy-grey with fine, faint barring on the underparts. Both sexes show smooth, satiny feathering with minimal contrast, giving an overall pale impression.
Diet
Feeds mainly on insects such as cicadas, beetles, moths, and caterpillars, gleaned from leaves and small branches. Will sally to capture flying insects and probe bark crevices for hidden prey. May occasionally take small fruits or berries when insect prey is scarce.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the mid to upper canopy of primary and mature secondary forest, along forest edges, and on ridgelines where prey is concentrated. Often follows mixed-species flocks to exploit disturbed foliage and emergent insect swarms.
