Whitehead's spiderhunter is a species of spiderhunter in the sunbird and spiderhunter family Nectariniidae. It is endemic to Borneo, where it is found in the mountain ranges in the north-central part of the island. It inhabits hill dipterocarp forest, primary and secondary montane forest, and forest edge at elevations of 930–3,000 m (3,050–9,840 ft). A large and distinctive spiderhunter, the species is mostly brown with profuse whitish streaking all over the body and bright yellow vents and uppertail coverts. Both sexes are similar in appearance, but males are larger, with a length of 16.5–18 cm (6.5–7.1 in) compared to a length of 15.5–16.5 cm (6.1–6.5 in) for females. The juvenile plumage is unknown.
Region
Northern Borneo, Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs in the north-central Bornean highlands, primarily in Sabah and adjacent northern Sarawak and Brunei. It inhabits hill dipterocarp and montane forests, including primary and mature secondary growth, as well as forest edges and ridgelines. The species typically forages from the mid-story to the canopy, moving along flowering trees and lianas. It prefers areas with abundant tubular blossoms such as gingers and ericaceous shrubs. It is generally uncommon in lowland forest and avoids heavily degraded habitats.
Altitude Range
930–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Whitehead's spiderhunter is a large, streaked spiderhunter confined to the montane forests of northern Borneo. Its long, decurved bill is adapted for probing tubular flowers and gleaning spiders from foliage. It often forages high in the canopy but will descend to flowering shrubs along forest edges. The species is frequently encountered around rhododendrons and gingers and may join mixed-species flocks.
A Whitehead's spiderhunter in Kinabalu Park, Malaysia
Temperament
active and somewhat unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct, fast flights between flowering trees
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, occasionally joining mixed-species flocks in the canopy. Nests are typically suspended, pouch-like structures attached to broad leaves or hanging vegetation, as in other spiderhunters. Breeding pairs defend small areas around rich floral resources. Outside breeding, it ranges widely while tracking blooms.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are high, thin whistles and sharp tseet notes, often delivered from concealed perches. Calls can accelerate into short series when agitated, and contact notes are simple, metallic chips.
