The pitta-like ground roller is a species of bird in the ground roller family Brachypteraciidae. The species is monotypic, having no subspecies. It is endemic to Madagascar.
Region
Eastern Madagascar
Typical Environment
Occurs along the eastern rainforest belt from lowland to montane humid evergreen forest. Prefers mature primary forest but also uses well-structured secondary forest where understory remains dense. Often found along stream gullies, in bamboo thickets, and on shaded forested slopes. It keeps close to the ground, moving through leaf litter and perching low to scan for prey.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This striking ground-dweller is endemic to Madagascar’s humid forests and is the only species in its genus without recognized subspecies. It forages mostly on the forest floor and often runs rather than flies. Like other ground rollers, it nests in burrows excavated into earthen banks. Ongoing deforestation is the principal threat, though the species remains locally common in suitable habitat.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; low, direct dashes between perches
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, maintaining territories on the forest floor. Breeding pairs excavate a burrow nest in earthen banks or sloped ground and both sexes participate in incubation and care. Courtship involves quiet following and soft calls within dense understory.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, whistled notes that carry far through the forest, often descending in pitch. Calls include mellow hoo or pew notes repeated at intervals, with sharper alarm ticks when disturbed.
