The red-keeled flowerpecker or red-striped flowerpecker is a species of bird in the family Dicaeidae. It is endemic to the Philippines. It is one of the more common birds in the Philippines as it is able to thrive in a wide array of habitats. The black-belted flowerpecker was formerly regarded as a subspecies of this bird.
Region
Philippines
Typical Environment
Occurs widely across the Philippine archipelago in lowland to foothill habitats. It frequents primary and secondary forest, forest edges, mangroves, scrub, plantations, and urban gardens. The species readily uses disturbed habitats and fragmented forest, which helps explain its abundance. Often found in fruiting and flowering trees and in mistletoe clumps.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This tiny flowerpecker is one of the most common and adaptable birds in the Philippines, thriving from forests to gardens. It plays an important role in dispersing mistletoe and other small-seeded plants. The black-belted flowerpecker was formerly treated as a subspecies but is now recognized as a separate species. Its bright red ventral stripe gives it the 'red-keeled' name.
Temperament
active and restless
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick, direct dashes
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, and often joins mixed-species flocks in the canopy. Builds a neat, purse-like pendant nest of plant fibers and spider silk suspended from foliage. Both parents typically attend the nest and feed the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of thin, high-pitched tseet and tsip notes, often delivered in quick sequences. Calls are sharp, metallic, and tinkling, carrying well from the canopy.
