Rufous Paradise Flycatcher

Overview

The rufous paradise flycatcher (Terpsiphone cinnamomea) is a species of bird in the family Monarchidae native to Indonesia and the Philippines. It is generally uncommon but classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, though it faces threats from deforestation.

Identification

• Overall rufous plumage with a blue bill and a blue eye-ring.
• Northern males possess extended central tail feathers, while females and southern males have a paler belly.
• Vocalisations include a repetitive series of upslurred whistled notes or a shorter, nasal grating call described as "greet grr-grr".

Habitat

This species inhabits primary and secondary tropical moist lowland forests up to an elevation of 1,200 m. Its range includes the Philippines and the Talaud Islands of far northern Indonesia.

Diet

The bird forages for insects in the forest understory and frequently joins mixed-species flocks containing other small birds such as the Celestial monarch and Blue-headed fantail.

Did you know?

Its nest is a cup made of plant fibers that is covered with moss and lichens, with a breeding season thought to occur from April to July.