The Papuan pitta is a species of pitta. It was formerly considered a subspecies of the red-bellied pitta. It is found in the Aru Islands, New Guinea and the northern Cape York Peninsula. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Australo-Papuan region
Typical Environment
Occurs in the Aru Islands, across much of New Guinea’s lowlands, and on Australia’s northern Cape York Peninsula. It inhabits subtropical to tropical moist lowland rainforest, swamp forest, and dense secondary growth. Birds keep close to the forest floor and dense thickets, often near streams or in vine tangles. It tolerates some selective logging if thick understory remains, but avoids open areas.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Papuan pitta is a secretive, ground-dwelling pitta of the Australo-Papuan lowland rainforests, once treated as part of the red-bellied pitta complex. It is heard more often than seen, giving clear, whistled notes from dense understory. It builds a domed ground nest and both parents care for the young. Ongoing habitat loss and fragmentation in parts of its range are concerns.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and direct between perches
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, maintaining territories within dense understory. Nests are domed structures on or near the ground made of leaves and rootlets. Clutches typically contain two to three eggs, with both adults incubating and feeding chicks.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Voice is a clear, carrying two-note whistle repeated at measured intervals, often delivered from a concealed perch. Contact and alarm calls include sharp metallic ticks or churrs.
