Hooded Pitohui
NameHooded Pitohui
Common NameHooded Pitohui
Scientific NamePitohui dichrous
FamilyOriolidae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)22.5
Weight (g)65
Plumage DetailsThe head, nape, throat, upper breast, wings, and tail are glossy black, forming a distinct 'hood'. The rest of the body, including the back, lower breast, belly, and rump, is a vibrant rufous-orange.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of loud, clear whistles, often described as 'hoo-whee' or 'whip-whip-whip', along with chattering calls and harsh scolding notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the island of New Guinea and some adjacent smaller islands, inhabiting lowland and hill primary and secondary forests.
Identifying FeaturesStriking black and rufous-orange plumage, Black hood-like head and upper body, Known to be a poisonous bird, Found exclusively in New Guinea
Description
The Hooded Pitohui is a medium-sized passerine bird known for its striking black and rufous-orange plumage. It is one of the few known poisonous birds, acquiring batrachotoxins from its diet, which are stored in its skin and feathers as a defense mechanism. This species typically forages in the understory and mid-canopy of forests.
