The Timor stubtail is a species of bird in the family Cettiidae. It is found on Timor and northern and eastern adjacent islands.
Region
Lesser Sunda Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs on Timor and adjacent northern and eastern islands in the Lesser Sundas, inhabiting dense understory of evergreen and semi-evergreen forest, secondary growth, and scrubby edges. It keeps close to the ground in thickets, vine tangles, bamboo patches, and along shaded stream gullies. The species tolerates degraded woodland and overgrown clearings if dense cover is present. It is generally local but can be fairly common where suitable understory persists.
Altitude Range
0–1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A tiny, secretive bush-warbler that keeps its very short tail cocked as it creeps through dense undergrowth. It is easiest to detect by its high, thin trills and sharp call notes rather than by sight. The species occurs only on Timor and a few nearby islands, where it favors shaded thickets and vine tangles. Its cryptic plumage makes it an expert at disappearing into leaf litter and low shrubs.
Temperament
skulking and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and direct through undergrowth
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs, especially in the breeding season. Nests are placed low in dense vegetation, often domed or well-concealed among grasses and shrubs. Pairs defend small territories using song and sharp call notes. Outside breeding, may join mixed-species flocks along forest edges.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of high, thin trills and rapid tinkling phrases delivered from concealed perches. Calls include short, sharp ticks and soft seeps that can be hard to localize. Vocalizations carry well in dense understory despite their delicate quality.
