The Elegant Pitta lives up to its name with its refined blend of green, blue, black, and rufous plumage. Endemic to the Lesser Sunda Islands, it is a secretive inhabitant of forest undergrowth.
Where to spot
Lowland to montane primary and secondary forests, often in bamboo thickets or dense undergrowth, endemic to the Lesser Sunda Islands (e.g., Timor, Flores, Sumba, Sumbawa).
How to spot
Listen for its characteristic 'wheeeuw' whistle. Observe patiently from a distance, scanning the forest floor for movement. It's often shy, so a quiet approach is crucial.
When to spot
Resident year-round. Most vocal and active during the breeding season (generally wet season months) and in the early morning and late afternoon.
Where to spot
Lowland to montane primary and secondary forests, often in bamboo thickets or dense undergrowth, endemic to the Lesser Sunda Islands (e.g., Timor, Flores, Sumba, Sumbawa).
How to spot
Listen for its characteristic 'wheeeuw' whistle. Observe patiently from a distance, scanning the forest floor for movement. It's often shy, so a quiet approach is crucial.
When to spot
Resident year-round. Most vocal and active during the breeding season (generally wet season months) and in the early morning and late afternoon.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
This species shows geographical variation across its island range, with subtle differences in plumage coloration and vocalizations among different populations.
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