Black-bellied Cicadabird
NameBlack-bellied Cicadabird
Common NameBlack-bellied Cicadabird
Scientific NameEdolisoma montanum
FamilyCampephagidae
Wingspan (cm)32
Length (cm)21
Weight (g)35
Plumage DetailsMales are largely dark grey to black, with the upperparts (back and wings) often appearing a slightly paler grey, creating a subtle contrast. The belly is dark, giving the species its common name. Females are distinctly different, being browner overall with fine barring on their underparts.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations consist of high-pitched, whistled notes, often delivered as a repeated series such as 'swee-swee-swee' or 'tsee-tsee-tsee'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the island of New Guinea, where it is found in the montane forests of the central cordillera.
Identifying FeaturesDark grey to black plumage (male), Palid grey back and wings contrasting with darker head and underparts (male), Found in montane forest habitats, High-pitched, whistled calls, Strong sexual dimorphism (females browner and barred)
Description
The Black-bellied Cicadabird is a medium-sized passerine found in montane forests of New Guinea. Males are predominantly dark grey to black with a contrasting paler grey on the back and wings, while females exhibit a browner plumage with barred underparts. They are typically observed foraging for insects in the forest canopy.
