The Visayan broadbill is a species of bird in the family Eurylaimidae where it was previously conspecific with the wattled broadbill. It is endemic to the islands of Samar, Leyte and Bohol in the central Philippines. Its natural habitat is tropical moist lowland forests. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Central Philippines (Visayas)
Typical Environment
Occurs on the islands of Samar, Leyte, and Bohol, where it inhabits primary and older secondary tropical moist lowland forests. It prefers dense understory and midstory layers, especially near streams and in ravines. The species can use selectively logged forest but is most common in intact habitat. Forest edges and degraded areas are used only occasionally. It is highly sensitive to extensive forest clearance and fragmentation.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Visayan broadbill was formerly lumped with the wattled broadbill but is now recognized as a distinct species restricted to the central Philippines. It favors dense, humid lowland forest and is often overlooked due to its quiet, secretive habits. Its purse-like hanging nests are suspended from branches, often over streams. Ongoing deforestation on Samar, Leyte, and Bohol is the primary threat to its survival.
A 2019 Philippine Stamp of a male Visayan Broadbill
Temperament
secretive and shy
Flight Pattern
short, direct flights with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly, in pairs, or small family groups, and occasionally joins mixed-species flocks in the midstory. Nests are pendant, purse-shaped structures suspended from slender branches, often over water for protection. Both parents participate in care of the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are soft and subdued, consisting of clear, whistled notes and short piping phrases. Calls can sound frog-like or metallic, often given from concealed perches. Singing is most frequent at dawn and during calm periods within the forest.
