Whiskered pitta facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Whiskered pitta |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Erythropitta
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| Species: |
kochi
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The whiskered pitta (Erythropitta kochi) is a rare and colorful bird. It lives only in Luzon, a large island in the Philippines. This bird is the biggest pitta in the Philippines. It can grow up to 23 centimeters (about 9 inches) long. It weighs around 116 grams (about 4 ounces). The whiskered pitta has a brownish head and a blue chest. Its belly is red. It gets its name from the broad, ash-colored "whiskers" on its face. These birds live in tropical forests. They are in danger because their habitat is shrinking. Many birdwatchers in the Philippines hope to see this special bird.
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What Does the Whiskered Pitta Look Like?
The whiskered pitta is a medium-sized bird. It lives on the forest floor in the mountains of Luzon. It likes thick plants, moss, and ferns. It often lives on steep slopes.
This bird has a brown back and sides. Its belly is red. It has a blue chest, tail, and blue edges on its wings. The back of its head is reddish-brown. Its face is dark, with a pale "moustache" or whisker. It also has a light line behind its eye.
The whiskered pitta looks a lot like the Blue-breasted Pitta. But the whiskered pitta usually lives in higher places. It has a clear whisker on its face. Its back is brown, not green.
What Does the Whiskered Pitta Sound Like?
The whiskered pitta has a unique song. It starts with a long, sad, downward sound. Then it makes several shorter notes. It sounds like "doooo doo-doo-doo-doo!"
Where Does the Whiskered Pitta Live?
The whiskered pitta mainly lives in mountain forests. It can live in areas where some trees have been cut. It has been seen at many different heights, from 360 to 2,200 meters (about 1,180 to 7,200 feet). However, most of these birds live between 900 and 1,500 meters (about 2,950 to 4,920 feet). This is where they usually have their babies.
They seem to prefer forests with a lot of trees and oak trees. These forests are often on steep hills. Scientists do not know much about how these birds move around. Some birds seen in southern Luzon might be moving there for the winter.
Why is the Whiskered Pitta in Danger?
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) says this bird is "near threatened". This means it could become endangered soon. Experts believe there are about 10,000 to 19,999 adult birds left.
The biggest danger to the whiskered pitta is habitat loss. This means their forest homes are being destroyed. People are cutting down trees for wood. They are also clearing land for farms and mining. These activities happen where the birds live. The birds are also in danger from being caught in traps.
How is the Whiskered Pitta Protected?
The whiskered pitta lives in several protected areas. These include the Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park, Mount Pulag Natural Park, and Mt. Isarog. Maria Aurora National Park also helps protect them. However, rules against logging and hunting are not always strongly enforced.
This bird is also listed under CITES Appendix I. This means it is one of the most protected animals in the world. Trading these birds across countries is almost completely banned. This helps to protect them from being sold illegally.
