The turquoise flycatcher, also known as the island flycatcher, is a species of bird in the family Muscicapidae. It is found in Indonesia and the Philippines. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs in the Philippines and parts of Indonesia, primarily in subtropical and tropical moist montane forests. It favors mossy, evergreen slopes and ridgelines, often near forest edges, clearings, and along shaded streams. The species typically uses the midstory to canopy strata, perching quietly before making short sallies. It is local but can be fairly common where intact high-elevation forest persists.
Altitude Range
900–2500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The turquoise flycatcher, sometimes called the island flycatcher, is a small montane songbird of the family Muscicapidae. Males show a striking turquoise-blue sheen, while females are duller and more gray-brown. It often joins mixed-species flocks and hunts by sallying out from shaded perches to catch flying insects. Its preference for cool, mossy high-elevation forest makes it sensitive to extensive habitat loss at lower elevations.
Temperament
active and agile
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick sallies from a perch
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, often within mixed-species foraging flocks in the midstory. Breeding pairs defend small territories and nest in sheltered, mossy niches such as banks, ledges, or tree forks. The nest is typically a neat cup, and both parents participate in rearing the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of thin, sweet whistles and soft trills delivered from shaded perches. Calls include sharp, high-pitched chips given during foraging and when interacting with flock-mates.
