The pygmy cuckooshrike is a species of bird in the cuckooshrike family Campephagidae. It is endemic to the Indonesian island of Sulawesi. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Region
Sulawesi, Indonesia (Wallacea)
Typical Environment
This species inhabits subtropical to tropical moist montane forests on Sulawesi. It favors mature and mossy forests, as well as forest edges and ridgelines, typically using the mid-story to canopy. It may persist in selectively logged forest where some canopy continuity remains. Birds are often encountered as part of mixed-species flocks, moving quietly through foliage while foraging.
Altitude Range
800–2200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The pygmy cuckooshrike is a small, elusive member of the Campephagidae found only on Sulawesi, Indonesia. It frequents montane forest canopies and often joins mixed-species flocks, where its subdued gray plumage helps it blend with mossy branches. Pairs are typically discreet, communicating with thin, high notes. Habitat integrity in Sulawesi’s highlands is important for its continued persistence.
Temperament
quiet, active, and somewhat secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between canopy perches
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs, and frequently associates with mixed-species flocks while foraging. Likely monogamous, with a small cup nest placed high in trees. Both sexes are thought to participate in nest duties and care for young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are soft and high-pitched, including thin whistles and sibilant tsip notes. Phrases are short, understated, and often delivered from within foliage.
Plumage
Compact cuckooshrike with smooth, mostly gray plumage; upperparts slate-gray with darker wings and tail, underparts paler gray with faint barring or mottling. Female tends to be slightly browner or more finely barred below. Texture is sleek with subtle pale edging to wing coverts.
Diet
Feeds mainly on insects and other small arthropods such as caterpillars, beetles, and orthopterans. Foraging is mostly by careful gleaning from leaves and twigs, with occasional short sallies to snatch prey. It may supplement with small berries when available, especially in mixed flocks.
Preferred Environment
Primarily forages in the mid-story to canopy of humid montane forest. Often uses edges, gaps, and along ridgelines where prey is concentrated on sunlit foliage.
