Visayan Shama
NameVisayan Shama
Common NameVisayan Shama
Scientific NameCopsychus cebuensis
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)22
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)22
Plumage DetailsMales are glossy black on the head, back, wings, and tail, with a contrasting pure white belly and vent. A broad, bright white supercilium extends from above the eye to the nape. Females are similar but duller, with a more sooty-black plumage.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its complex, melodious, and varied song, which often includes mimicry of other bird species. It also produces a range of chirps and whistles.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statuscritically-endangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to Cebu Island in the central Philippines, where it inhabits remaining patches of lowland primary and secondary forest, particularly in areas with dense undergrowth and limestone karst.
Identifying FeaturesGlossy black upperparts (male), White belly and vent, Prominent white supercilium (eyebrow stripe), Long tail, Shy behavior in dense forest
Description
The Visayan Shama is a striking black and white bird endemic to Cebu Island, Philippines. It is characterized by its glossy black upperparts, white belly, and a prominent white supercilium, often found foraging shyly in dense forest undergrowth.
