White-winged cuckooshrike

The white-winged cuckooshrike, also known as white-winged cicadabird or white-winged graybird, is a species of bird in the family Campephagidae. It is endemic to the Philippines found on the islands of Negros, Panay and formerly on Guimaras. Some taxonomists place this species in the genus Analisoma.

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Distribution

Region

Western Visayas, Philippines

Typical Environment

Occurs in primary and mature secondary evergreen forests, typically from the mid to upper canopy. It is found along forest edges and occasionally in well-wooded plantations adjacent to forest. Historically present in lowlands, it now persists mainly in foothill and montane forests where habitat remains. Often joins mixed-species flocks while foraging in the canopy.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 1500 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size22–24 cm

Wing Span30–35 cm

Male Weight0.06 kg

Female Weight0.055 kg

Life Expectancy8 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

Also called the white-winged cicadabird, this species is a canopy-dwelling cuckooshrike restricted to Negros and Panay in the Philippines. It shows a bold white wing panel that is obvious in flight and at rest. Some authorities have placed it in the genus Analisoma, but most treatments use Edolisoma. Rapid lowland deforestation has led to its scarcity and upland bias.

Gallery

A male in Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park

Behaviour

Temperament

quiet but active canopy forager

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats between canopy gaps

Social Behavior

Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, and commonly associates with mixed-species flocks. Likely monogamous, nesting high in the canopy in a small cup nest placed on a horizontal branch. Breeding is presumed during the local dry season when insect prey peaks.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Gives soft, liquid whistles and subdued piping notes interspersed with dry ‘chik’ calls. Vocalizations are modest in volume and often delivered from concealed perches in the canopy.

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Identification

Leg Colordark grey

Eye Colordark brown

Plumage

Smooth, plain-toned upperparts with a striking white wing panel formed by white median and greater coverts; underparts in males are dark slate to blackish, females greyer with faint barring or mottling.

Feeding Habits

Diet

Feeds primarily on arthropods, including caterpillars, beetles, cicadas, and other insects gleaned from foliage and twigs. Will sally out to snatch flying insects and occasionally takes small fruits or berries. Foraging is methodical, often following mixed flocks to exploit disturbed prey.

Preferred Environment

Mid to upper canopy of primary and well-regenerated secondary forest, and along forest edges. Sometimes ventures into adjacent agroforestry plots and wooded ravines when near intact forest.

Population

Total Known Populationunknown

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