The pied shrike-babbler is a bird species traditionally considered an aberrant Old World babbler and placed in the family Timaliidae. But as it seems, it belongs to an Asian offshoot of the American vireos and may well belong in the Vireonidae. Indeed, since long it was noted that their habits resemble those of vireos, but this was believed to be the result of convergent evolution.
Region
Sundaland (Java and nearby islands)
Typical Environment
Primarily inhabits montane evergreen and mossy forests, forest edges, and ridgelines. It favors dense midstory and canopy foliage where it forages methodically among leaves and twigs. The species tolerates lightly disturbed secondary forest and edges but is most frequent in mature montane habitats.
Altitude Range
800–2500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Once placed among Old World babblers, genetic studies show shrike-babblers are closer to New World vireos (Vireonidae). Males are strikingly black-and-white while females are olive-toned, making pairs look quite different. They often join mixed-species flocks and are heard more often than seen, delivering bright, repetitive trills in montane forests.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often moves in pairs or small family groups and regularly joins mixed-species flocks in the canopy. Nests are typically cup-shaped and placed on horizontal branches. Pairs maintain small territories during breeding while remaining tolerant of passing flock members.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a bright, repetitive trill or series of clear whistled notes delivered from mid to upper canopy. Calls include short, sharp chips used to stay in contact within flocks.
