The Philippine leafbird is a species of bird in the family Chloropseidae. It is endemic to the Philippines. It is found in the islands of Mindanao, Leyte, Samar and Cebu. Its natural habitat is tropical moist lowland forest. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Endemic to the Philippines away from Palawan, it inhabits tropical moist lowland forests, forest edges, and secondary growth. It forages high in the canopy but also uses mid-story trees along rivers and clearings. The species adapts to lightly disturbed habitats with abundant flowering and fruiting trees. It may visit gardens or plantations adjacent to forest when suitable resources are present.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Philippine leafbird is a vivid green canopy songbird known for its rich, whistled phrases and occasional mimicry of other birds. It frequents flowering and fruiting trees, helping pollinate blossoms and disperse seeds. Males typically show a darker facial mask and brighter accents than females. Ongoing loss of lowland forest threatens suitable habitat in parts of its range.
Temperament
shy and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen alone or in pairs and regularly joins mixed-species flocks in the canopy. Pairs defend small feeding territories when resources are concentrated. The nest is a delicate cup suspended from a forked twig high in a tree; both parents tend the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rich series of clear whistles, twitters, and liquid notes delivered from high perches. It may incorporate mimicry of other forest birds. Contact calls are thin, sharp chips.
