The spotted berrypecker is a species of bird in the family Melanocharitidae. It is found in New Guinea. It was formerly considered a subspecies of the thick-billed berrypecker, but was split as a distinct species by the IOC in 2021. The name "spotted berrypecker" references the spotted plumage that the female bird has.
Region
New Guinea Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs in montane and submontane forests across the central cordillera of New Guinea, extending into adjacent ridges and valleys. Prefers primary mossy forest but also uses secondary growth and forest edges where fruiting shrubs and trees are abundant. Often seen at fruiting mistletoes and small figs, moving deliberately through the midstory. Generally local but can be fairly common where fruit resources are concentrated.
Altitude Range
800–2600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The spotted berrypecker is a New Guinea highland bird split from the thick-billed berrypecker by the IOC in 2021. Females show distinctive spotted underparts, which gave the species its common name. It forages quietly in the midstory of montane forests and is an important disperser of small forest fruits, including mistletoes.
Temperament
shy and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Usually in pairs or small family groups, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks moving through fruiting trees. Nesting is presumed to be a small cup placed in dense vegetation, with the female likely undertaking most incubation as in related berrypeckers. Territoriality appears modest, centered on reliable fruit sources.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are soft and high-pitched, including thin tseep notes and short, whistled phrases. Calls are often given from within cover and can be easily overlooked in the general forest chorus.
