The yellow-bellied whistler, or Philippine whistler, is a species of bird in the family Pachycephalidae that is endemic to the Philippines. Its natural habitats are tropical moist lowland forest and the lower reaches tropical moist montane forest.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Endemic to the Philippines, occurring on several major islands including Luzon and other parts of the archipelago. It inhabits tropical moist lowland forest and the lower reaches of moist montane forest. Birds also use secondary growth, forest edges, and bamboo thickets when primary forest is patchy. The species typically keeps to the understory and midstory, moving methodically through foliage in search of prey.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A member of the whistler family, it’s named for its clear, melodious song and is often heard before it’s seen. The species favors lowland to lower montane forests but can persist in secondary growth and forest edges. Although generally common where habitat remains, ongoing deforestation can fragment its range. It frequently joins mixed-species flocks while foraging in the midstory.
Temperament
skulking and alert
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Often found singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season when it can be territorial. Outside breeding, it may travel in small family parties and regularly associates with mixed-species flocks. Nests are compact cups placed in shrubs or low trees; both parents likely share incubation and feeding of nestlings.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, ringing whistles delivered in short phrases, often repeated from a concealed perch. Calls include sharp chips and sweet, fluty notes that carry well through dense foliage.
