Capuchin Babbler
NameCapuchin Babbler
Common NameCapuchin Babbler
Scientific NameMicromacronus leytensis
FamilyCisticolidae
Wingspan (cm)14
Length (cm)8.5
Weight (g)7
Plumage DetailsThis species has dark olive-brown upperparts and flanks, contrasting with whitish underparts. Its most striking feature is the blackish crown and nape, which are heavily scaled with white, giving it a unique 'capuchin' or 'scaly' appearance. The bill is pale.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations consist of high-pitched, thin, and sibilant calls, often delivered as a rapid series of 'tsee-tsee-tsee' or 'tsip-tsip-tsip' notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Philippines, the Capuchin Babbler is found on the islands of Leyte, Samar, and Mindanao.
Identifying Featuresvery small size, dark olive-brown body, scaly black and white crown and nape, pale bill, frequents dense forest undergrowth
Description
The Capuchin Babbler is a very small, dark olive-brown passerine bird known for its distinctive scaly-patterned crown. It typically forages in the dense undergrowth and bamboo thickets of tropical lowland forests, often joining mixed-species flocks.
