Whitehead's broadbill is a species of bird in the family Calyptomenidae. It is endemic to the mountain ranges of north-central Borneo, where it mainly inhabits montane forests and forest edges at elevations of 900–1,700 m (3,000–5,600 ft). It is 24–27 cm (9.4–10.6 in) long, with males weighing 142–171 g (5.0–6.0 oz) and females weighing 150–163 g (5.3–5.7 oz). Males are vivid green and have a black throat patch, black spots on the ear-coverts and back of the neck, and black markings and streaking all over the body. The tails and flight feathers are also blackish. Females are smaller and lack the black markings on the head and underparts. Juveniles look similar to adults but have fewer black markings.
Region
Borneo
Typical Environment
Restricted to the mountain ranges of north-central Borneo, it inhabits montane evergreen and mossy forests as well as forest edges. The species favors mature forest structure with plentiful fruiting trees. It typically keeps to the mid- to upper canopy but may descend to lower levels at forest edges or along ridges. While mainly associated with primary forest, it can use well-regenerated secondary montane forest where canopy fruit is available.
Altitude Range
900–1700 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Named after the British explorer John Whitehead, this striking broadbill is a jewel of Borneo’s montane forests. It often sits motionless in the mid- to upper canopy, making it tricky to spot despite its vivid green plumage. By consuming a variety of fruits, it likely plays an important role in seed dispersal in high-elevation forests.
Whitehead's broadbill in Kinabalu Park
Temperament
quiet and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief, direct flights between perches
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, it sometimes gathers in small groups at fruiting trees. Breeding pairs maintain small territories within suitable montane forest. Like other broadbills, it likely constructs a suspended, well-camouflaged nest from plant fibers and moss.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include soft, mellow whistles and low, piping notes that carry through the forest interior. Calls are often delivered from a concealed canopy perch and may be interspersed with quiet chattering.
Plumage
Male is vivid leaf-green with a black throat patch, black spotting on the ear-coverts and hindneck, and fine black mottling and streaking on the body; tail and flight feathers are blackish with green edges. Female is bright green overall, lacking the male’s black head and throat markings, with subtler streaking or barring. Juveniles resemble females with fewer markings.
Diet
Primarily frugivorous, taking small figs, drupes, and various fleshy berries in the canopy. It also supplements its diet with insects and other small arthropods gleaned from foliage. Foraging is deliberate, with careful picking and short sallies to nearby fruiting clusters. Seasonal availability of fruit likely influences local movements and feeding intensity.
Preferred Environment
Feeds mostly in the mid- to upper canopy of montane evergreen and mossy forests. Frequently visits fruiting trees along ridges and at forest edges, and occasionally forages along gaps and streams.
