The white-shouldered triller is a passerine bird belonging to the triller genus Lalage in the cuckoo-shrike family Campephagidae. It is found in Indonesia and East Timor. The white-winged triller of Australia and New Guinea was formerly included in this species but is now treated as a separate species.
Region
Wallacea (Lesser Sunda Islands and Timor region)
Typical Environment
Occurs on several islands of the Lesser Sundas, including Timor, as well as adjacent smaller islands in Indonesia and Timor-Leste. Favors open and semi-open habitats such as savanna woodland, coastal scrub, mangrove edges, secondary growth, and agricultural mosaics with scattered trees. Frequently found along roadsides and village outskirts where perches are available. Tolerant of human-modified landscapes as long as some tree cover remains.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A small cuckooshrike of the genus Lalage, the white-shouldered triller is notable for the male’s bold black-and-white contrast with a conspicuous white shoulder patch. It inhabits open woodlands, scrub, and cultivated areas across the Lesser Sundas, Indonesia, and Timor-Leste. Formerly lumped with the Australian white-winged triller, it is now recognized as a separate species. It is primarily insectivorous and often hunts by sallying from exposed perches.
Temperament
alert and active, moderately territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct, purposeful flights between perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups. Breeding pairs defend small territories and build a neat cup nest in the fork of a tree. Both parents typically participate in rearing the young. Outside breeding season, may associate loosely with mixed flocks in open habitats.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of clear trills and piping whistles delivered from an exposed perch. Calls include sharp chips and metallic notes, often given during brief sallies to catch insects.
