Order Passeriformes Higher classification Pseudorectes | Phylum Chordata Scientific name Pseudorectes ferrugineus Rank Species | |
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Similar White‑bellied pitohui, Pitohui, Island whistler, Little shrikethrush, Mottled berryhunter | ||
Rusty pitohui top 5 facts
The rusty pitohui (Pseudorectes ferrugineus) is a species of bird in the family Pachycephalidae. It is found on the Aru Islands and New Guinea.
Contents
- Rusty pitohui top 5 facts
- Taxonomy and systematics
- Subspecies
- Description
- Distribution and Habitat
- Behaviour and Ecology
- Status
- References
Taxonomy and systematics
The rusty pitohui was originally classified within the genus Rectes (a synonym for the genus Pitohui) until moved to Pseudorectes by the IOC in 2013. Alternatively, some other authorities classify the rusty pitohui in the genus Colluricincla. Alternate names for the rusty pitohui include the ferrugineous pitohui and rusty shrike-thrush.
Subspecies
Six subspecies are recognized:
Description
The rusty pitohui is a medium-sized, approximately 28 cm long, rusty brown songbird with a strong black bill, pale iris and yellowish-buff below. The subspecies P. f. leucorhynchus and P. f. fuscus of Waigeo and Batanta islands off Western New Guinea have a whitish bill. It is the largest member of its family. Both sexes are similar.
Distribution and Habitat
The rusty pitohui is distributed and endemic to lowland and hill forests of New Guinea, Aru Island and West Papuan islands.
Behaviour and Ecology
The rusty pitohui is usually seen in small parties, mixed with other gregarious species. It builds a deep, cup-shaped nest of sticks, leaves and stems in a fork of a tree.
Status
Widespread and common throughout its habitat range, the rusty pitohui is evaluated as least concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.