ML467018711

Observation details

Location: SE side of forested ridge, near cultivated gardens above Abeleti Beach fuel store. Just off path to the village to the NE (village above river at the head of a small estuary). Heard at various times from early morning until late afternoon (I wasn't present at dawn or dusk). Responded to recordings of Erythropitta macklotii (Papuan Pitta) whose call is not too different. Birds in a pair seem to call to each other while patrolling their territory along predictable paths. Very mobile, hopping across forest floor, occasionally in low flight when disturbed - when broad short wings and pale shoulder-spot noticeable. Sex of the bird recorded unknown. For identification see N. J. Collar, J. del Hoyo & F. Jutglar, FORKTAIL 31 (2015): 13–2, "The number of species and subspecies in the Red-bellied Pitta Erythropitta erythrogaster complex: a quantitative analysis of morphological characters". Broad lower breast-band and even colouring of brown on forecrown / hindcrown are easiest features to observe in forest floor shade (although crown may appear bright chestnut if it catches the light). Green on upperparts only visible in sunlight or if flash photography used. Exact colours of throat, upper breast patch, and upper mantle may be hard to distinguish. In juvenile, the pale throat-patch is obvious. A shy and secretive bird which takes a while to respond to recordings, it may eventually be observed closely but rarely stays still. Not uncommon, at least between Saman and Abeleti. May visit cultivated areas. Villagers sometimes come across nests (2 eggs).