The thick-billed flowerpecker is a tiny bird in the flowerpecker group. They feed predominantly on fruits and are active birds that are mainly seen in the tops of trees in forests. It is a resident bird with a wide distribution across tropical southern Asia from India east to Indonesia and Timor with several populations recognized as subspecies some of which are sometimes treated as full species. This species was formerly placed in the genus Dicaeum.
Region
South and Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs widely from the Indian subcontinent through Sri Lanka and into parts of Southeast Asia, including the Greater Sundas and Timor region. It favors forest canopies of evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, edges, orchards, and wooded gardens. Often found around fruiting trees and mistletoe-laden branches. Tolerates secondary growth and degraded forest as long as fruit resources remain available.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This tiny canopy-dweller specializes in small berries, especially mistletoe, and often swallows fruits whole. It plays an important role in seed dispersal, sometimes wiping sticky seeds onto branches after feeding. Its short tail and thick, stubby bill give it a distinctive silhouette as it flits through the treetops. Calls are high, thin chips that carry surprisingly well from the canopy.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or in small loose groups, often following fruiting trees. Builds a neat, pendant, purse-like nest from plant fibers and spider silk, suspended from foliage. Breeding typically coincides with local peaks in fruit availability and seasonal rains.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are thin, high-pitched tsip and tsee notes, often repeated rapidly. The song is a simple series of high chips and trills delivered from the canopy and can be hard to localize.
