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.
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
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
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.
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.
Plumage
Compact, short-tailed flowerpecker with glossy dark upperparts and a vivid, contrasting patch on the breast. Underparts show brighter tones with a paler belly; females are duller and more olive with reduced or absent scarlet. Feathers appear smooth and close-fitting, giving a neat, sleek look.
Diet
Primarily small fruits and berries, especially mistletoes (Loranthaceae), along with figs and other soft fruits. Supplements with nectar by probing flowers and occasionally takes small arthropods. Its fruit-focused diet makes it an effective seed disperser in lowland forests.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the mid to upper canopy of lowland evergreen and swamp forests, also along forest edges and in fruiting trees near wetlands. Will visit secondary growth where suitable fruiting plants persist.
