The white-rumped triller is a species of bird in the family Campephagidae. It is endemic to Sulawesi in Indonesia. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest and subtropical or tropical mangrove forest.
Region
Wallacea (Sulawesi, Indonesia)
Typical Environment
Occurs throughout lowland and coastal areas of Sulawesi and nearby small islets. It inhabits subtropical and tropical moist lowland forest, forest edges, secondary growth, and mangrove forests. The species tolerates some habitat disturbance and will use wooded plantations and scrub near forest. It typically keeps to mid-canopy and canopy levels but may descend to lower strata along edges and mangroves.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The white-rumped triller is a small cuckooshrike notable for its contrasting white rump, which flashes in flight. It forages methodically among foliage, often in pairs or small family groups, and frequents both primary and secondary lowland forests as well as mangroves. Its sharp, repetitive trills carry through the canopy, making it easier to detect than to see.
Temperament
alert and active, somewhat shy near dense cover
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides between perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or in small family groups; may associate loosely with mixed-species flocks in the canopy. Likely monogamous, maintaining small territories in suitable forest patches. Nests are shallow cups placed on horizontal forks high in trees.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of sharp, metallic trills and clear whistles delivered from exposed perches. Calls are repetitive and carry well, often used to maintain contact between pair members.
Plumage
Compact triller with smooth, slightly glossy upperparts and cleaner, paler underparts; the white rump is conspicuous in flight. Subtle streaking may be present on the breast and flanks, with darker wings showing pale edging or faint wing bars.
Diet
Primarily feeds on insects such as beetles, caterpillars, orthopterans, and other arthropods gleaned from leaves and small branches. It sometimes sallies to catch flying insects and may take small fruits or berries opportunistically. Foraging is deliberate, with frequent short hops and scans from mid- to upper-canopy perches.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along forest edges, secondary growth, and mangrove margins where insect prey is abundant. Often forages in the mid-canopy but will use lower strata in mangroves and along edges.
