The Sulawesi babbler is a species of bird in the family Pellorneidae. It is endemic to Indonesia.
Region
Sulawesi and satellite islands, Indonesia (Wallacea)
Typical Environment
Found in primary and secondary lowland to lower montane rainforest, favoring dense understory, vine tangles, and bamboo thickets. It also occurs along forest edges and in selectively logged forest where ground cover remains thick. The species forages close to the ground, often in ravines and along stream gullies. It is generally absent from open farmland and highly degraded scrub.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Sulawesi babbler is a shy understory specialist that spends most of its time close to the forest floor, where it flicks its tail and forages in dense leaf litter. It is endemic to Sulawesi and nearby satellite islands of Indonesia. Pairs often keep in contact with soft calls and may duet, making the bird easier to hear than to see. Its presence is a good indicator of intact lowland and lower montane forest.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low darting flights within understory
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or family parties, moving quietly through dense understory. Pairs are likely monogamous and maintain small territories. Nests are placed low, often in dense vegetation; both parents participate in care. It occasionally joins mixed-species understory flocks.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, fluty whistles delivered in short phrases, often repeated. Pairs may give antiphonal duets, with contact calls consisting of soft chips and thin seep notes.
