The Philippine magpie-robin is a species of bird in the family Muscicapidae. It is endemic to the Philippines. It was formerly a subspecies of Oriental magpie-robin but was designated as its own species.
Region
Philippines
Typical Environment
Found widely across the Philippine archipelago in lowland and foothill zones. It frequents forest edges, secondary growth, mangroves, plantations, and urban parks and gardens. The species often occurs near human settlements where scattered trees and shrubbery provide cover. It tolerates habitat disturbance better than many forest specialists.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Recently split from the Oriental magpie-robin, this species is endemic to the Philippines and is a familiar voice in both forest edges and gardens. Males deliver rich, melodious songs and often sing from conspicuous perches. It adapts well to secondary growth and disturbed habitats, which helps keep populations stable.
Bathing
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent tail-flicking
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, maintaining territories year-round. Monogamous pairs nest in cavities, crevices, or sheltered ledges, lining nests with plant fibers. Both parents feed the nestlings and defend the nest area vigorously.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A rich, varied, and melodic song delivered from exposed perches, especially at dawn. Males incorporate whistles, trills, and mimicry of other species. Calls include sharp chacks and thin whistles used in contact and alarm.
Plumage
Clean black-and-white contrast with smooth, glossy feathers in males and duller, gray-toned plumage in females. Prominent white wing patch and white outer tail feathers are visible in flight. Underparts are largely white with sharp separation from darker upperparts.
Diet
Primarily feeds on insects and other small invertebrates such as beetles, ants, termites, and caterpillars. It also takes spiders and occasionally small snails or worms. Opportunistically, it may consume small berries when available.
Preferred Environment
Forages on the ground and low perches in forest edges, gardens, and thickets, often sallying to capture prey. It probes leaf litter and picks insects from foliage and bark in lightly shaded areas. Human-modified habitats with shrubs and lawns are frequently used.
