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Overview
Scarlet-breasted flowerpecker

Scarlet-breasted flowerpecker

Wikipedia

The scarlet-breasted flowerpecker is a species of bird in the family Dicaeidae. It is found in Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest and subtropical or tropical swamps. It is threatened by habitat loss.

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Distribution

Region

Sundaland (Malay Peninsula, Borneo, Sumatra) in Maritime Southeast Asia

Typical Environment

Found in Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and southern Thailand, mainly in primary and mature secondary lowland rainforests. It favors forest edges, riverine and swamp forests, and fruiting trees within closed-canopy habitats. The species usually forages in the mid- to upper canopy but may descend to lower levels when small fruits are abundant. Habitat fragmentation and conversion of lowland forest reduce suitable areas.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 800 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size9–10 cm
Wing Span12–16 cm
Male Weight0.01 kg
Female Weight0.009 kg
Life Expectancy5 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

A tiny member of the flowerpecker family (Dicaeidae), the scarlet-breasted flowerpecker plays an important role in forest regeneration by dispersing seeds of mistletoes and other small-fruited plants. It is typically shy and canopy-dwelling, making it easier heard than seen. Ongoing loss of lowland forests across Sundaland threatens its preferred habitats.

Gallery

Bird photo
Bird photo

Behaviour

Temperament

active and somewhat shy

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats between perches

Social Behavior

Usually solitary or in pairs, occasionally joining mixed-species flocks in the canopy. Builds a small, neat, pendant or cup-like nest concealed among foliage. Both parents likely participate in feeding the young. Territorial behavior is most evident during the breeding season.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

High-pitched, thin tsit and see notes, often delivered in short series. Calls are quick and clipped, carrying well in the canopy but easily overlooked among insect noise.

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