The sulphur-vented whistler or sulphur-bellied whistler is a species of bird in the family Pachycephalidae. It is endemic to Sulawesi in Indonesia. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest and subtropical or tropical moist montane forest.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Endemic to the island of Sulawesi in Indonesia, occurring from lowland rainforests to montane forests. It favors primary forest but also uses secondary growth, forest edges, and tall scrub where canopy structure remains. Birds are most frequently encountered in the understorey to midstory, moving through dense foliage. They may be locally common where suitable habitat persists, but less numerous in heavily degraded areas.
Altitude Range
0–2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The sulphur-vented whistler, also called the sulphur-bellied whistler, is a songbird of the whistler family Pachycephalidae. It is confined to Sulawesi, Indonesia, where it occupies both lowland and montane forests. Its bright yellow vent contrasts with more subdued olive and gray tones, making it easier to pick out when it sings from the midstory. Like many whistlers, it often joins mixed-species flocks while foraging.
Temperament
secretive but active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs within dense foliage. Frequently joins mixed-species foraging flocks, moving steadily through the midstory. Nests are cup-shaped and placed in shrubs or small trees; both sexes may participate in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Rich, clear whistled phrases delivered at moderate pace, often repeated from a concealed perch. Calls include sharp chips and mellow whistles used to keep contact within pairs or with flock mates.
Plumage
Olive-brown upperparts with a greyer head and nape, contrasting with yellow underparts that become brightest around the vent. The throat is paler, and the breast and flanks can show a warm olive wash. Plumage is sleek and smooth, with minimal streaking.
Diet
Primarily consumes arthropods such as caterpillars, beetles, and spiders, gleaned from leaves and thin branches. It occasionally hawks for small flying insects and may take small berries or other soft fruits opportunistically. Foraging is methodical, with short sallies between perches when pursuing prey.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in the understorey to midstory of humid forest, including edges and secondary growth where foliage is dense. Often forages along vine tangles, saplings, and outer leaf layers where insects concentrate.
