The Panay striped babbler is a species of bird in the family Zosteropidae and was completely unknown to science until its discovery in 1987 and designation as its own species in 1990. It is endemic to the Philippines only being found on the island of Panay. Its natural habitat is tropical moist montane forest. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Western Visayas, Philippines
Typical Environment
Occurs only in the Central Panay mountain range, inhabiting tropical moist montane and mossy forests. It favors dense understory and mid-elevation ridges where shrubs, bamboo, and moss-laden branches provide foraging surfaces. The species tolerates lightly disturbed forest but is largely absent from heavily degraded areas and open agricultural land. Protected forest tracts and intact watershed areas are key strongholds.
Altitude Range
900–1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Discovered in 1987 and described in 1990, this montane babbler is confined to the highlands of Panay in the Philippines and belongs to the white-eye family (Zosteropidae). It forages actively in the understory and midstory and often joins mixed-species flocks. Ongoing deforestation on Panay threatens its limited habitat, making its conservation closely tied to protection of remaining montane forests.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups and commonly joins mixed-species flocks of other montane insectivores. Nests are likely cup-shaped and placed low to mid-level in dense vegetation, with both parents contributing to care. Territoriality is moderate, with soft contact calls maintaining group cohesion in dense foliage.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A thin, high-pitched series of trills and chips delivered in quick phrases. Calls include sharp tsik notes and scolding chatter when disturbed, often given from concealed perches.
Plumage
Olive-brown upperparts with rufous tones on the wings and tail; underparts buff with bold black streaking from throat through breast and flanks. A pale buff supercilium contrasts with a darker eye-line and malar area, and the throat is paler with fine streaks. Feathers are soft and slightly loose-textured, aiding a sleek but subtly fluffy look in the understory.
Diet
Primarily takes small insects, spiders, and other arthropods gleaned from leaves, twigs, and mossy branches. It occasionally snatches prey with short sallies and may take small berries opportunistically. Foraging is brisk, with frequent movement through tangles and along vine-laden branches.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in the understory and midstory of humid montane forest, especially in dense thickets, bamboo patches, and along forested ridges. Edges of intact forest and lightly disturbed secondary growth adjacent to primary forest can also be used.
