Balicassiao

Overview

The balicassiao is a passerine bird endemic to the Philippines. It is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List due to its large range and local commonness.

Identification

• The specific name balicassius is derived from Balicasiao, the Cebuano word for the bird.
• The subspecies D. b. mirabilis is distinct for having a white belly.

Habitat

This species inhabits tropical moist lowland primary and secondary forests up to 1,200 metres above sea level. Its range covers Central and South Luzon, Polillo, Lubang, Verde, Mindoro, Marinduque, Catanduanes, North Luzon, Ticao, Masbate, Panay, Guimaras, Negros, Bantayan, and Cebu.

Diet

The bird typically perches on a conspicuous branch to catch insects, then returns to the same perch. It also forages by turning and searching leaves and flowers for insects, usually alone or in small groups.

Did you know?

The nest is an open cup constructed from brown plant fibres and cobwebs. It generally contains three eggs.