Grey Whistler
NameGrey Whistler
Common NameGrey Whistler
Scientific NamePachycephala simplex
FamilyPachycephalidae
Wingspan (cm)22
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)20
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are dull greyish-brown, contrasting with a paler, often buffy-white or creamy-white throat and underparts. It has a dark eye and a relatively stout, dark bill. The tail is plain and moderately long, lacking distinct markings.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of clear, ringing whistles, sometimes described as having a 'whip-crack' quality. It may also produce more subdued, repetitive 'wee-choo wee-choo' calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across Southeast Asia, including parts of Malaysia, Indonesia (Sumatra, Borneo, Java, Sulawesi, New Guinea), and the Philippines.
Identifying FeaturesPlain dull greyish-brown upperparts, Pale buffy-white underparts, Dark eye and bill, Lack of strong head or body markings
Description
The Grey Whistler is a small to medium-sized passerine known for its rather plain plumage. It typically forages actively in the understory and mid-canopy of tropical and subtropical forests, often alone or in pairs. Its vocalizations are characteristic whistles.
