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White-vented Shama (Copsychus niger)

White-vented Shama

Copsychus niger

Least Concern

Overview

The white-vented shama (Copsychus niger) is a species of bird in the chat and flycatcher family, endemic to the Palawan, Balabac and Calamian islands in the Philippines. It is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, although its population is decreasing.

Habitat

This species inhabits primary lowland forest, second growth areas, and thick scrub within its restricted range. It occurs in just one protected area, the Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm, while the wider region faces threats from logging and mining.

Diet

While not much is known about its specific diet, it is presumed to be an insectivore similar to most shamas. The bird usually forages in pairs close to the forest floor or within thickets containing many tangled vines.

Did you know?

The white-vented shama is one of only four endemic shamas in the Philippines, sharing this status with the Black shama, White-browed shama and Visayan shama.

Sources