The Philippine pitta or blue-breasted pitta, is a species of bird in the family Pittidae. It is a striking and colorful with a red belly, black throat, a brown head, a blue chest, rump and tail. It is found in Indonesia and the Philippines. Its natural habitat is tropical moist lowland forest. It is part of the Red-bellied pitta species complex.
Region
Philippines and eastern Indonesia
Typical Environment
Typically inhabits tropical moist lowland and foothill forests, favoring dense understory with deep leaf litter. It uses primary rainforest but can persist in well-structured secondary growth and selectively logged forest. Birds often forage near streams, thickets, and bamboo tangles. It is largely terrestrial, moving quietly through cover and hopping between shaded patches. Occurrence is patchy where forest has been fragmented.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the blue-breasted pitta, this striking forest bird is a member of the formerly broad red-bellied pitta complex. It spends much of its time on the shadowy forest floor, where its vivid colors are surprisingly cryptic among dappled light. It is secretive and often detected more by its clear, whistled calls than by sight. Habitat loss is the main threat in parts of its range.
A 1979 Philippine stamp featuring the Whiskered pitta and Philippine pitta
A juvenile of the nominate subspecies
Temperament
secretive and shy
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and direct through understory
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, becoming territorial during the breeding season. Nests are typically domed or ball-like structures placed low in dense cover or on the ground. Both sexes likely contribute to nesting and care, and adults remain close to concealed young. Displays and pair-bonding occur in shaded understory clearings.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A clear, mellow whistle delivered in simple phrases, often repeated from hidden perches. Notes carry well and can sound ventriloquial, making the bird difficult to locate. Calls include soft chups and sharp contact notes when alarmed.
