White-bellied Pitohui

The White-bellied Pitohui, with its scientific name Pseudorectes incertus, is a member of the Pachycephalidae family. This bird is recognized by its distinctive white belly, which contrasts with its otherwise brown plumage.

Identification Tips

To identify the White-bellied Pitohui, look for its unique combination of a white underbelly and mottled brown upperparts. This bird may also be referred to by alternate names such as the Brown Pitohui, Mottle-breasted Pitohui, Mottled Pitohui, or White-bellied Shrike-thrush.

Habitat

The White-bellied Pitohui is found in subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and subtropical or tropical swamps, where it thrives in the dense foliage.

Distribution

This species is endemic to the lowlands of southern New Guinea, ranging from the Lorentz River to the upper Fly River.

Conservation Status

The White-bellied Pitohui is currently classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN due to ongoing habitat loss, which poses a significant threat to its survival.

Taxonomy and Systematics

Originally described in the genus Pitohui, the White-bellied Pitohui was moved to the genus Pseudorectes by the IOC in 2013. Some authorities, however, still classify it within the genus Colluricincla.