Endemic to the island of Mindanao, it belongs to the broadbill family but stands out as a true showstopper thanks to its vivid colors and its namesake feature: bright, fleshy blue wattles around its eyes. These wattles look almost cartoonish, giving the bird a permanently wide-eyed, surprised expression. Combined with its mix of black, white, chestnut, and pinkish tones, the Wattled broadbill looks more like a bird from a fairy tale than a real forest dweller.

This species isn’t just about looks—it also has a fascinating lifestyle. Like its broadbill relatives, the Wattled broadbill builds a large, hanging nest, shaped like a messy purse or dangling pouch, often suspended over water. These nests may not win awards for neatness, but they’re highly effective at protecting chicks from predators. The bird feeds primarily on insects, which it gleans from leaves or snatches in midair, using its broad, flattened bill. Unlike many birds that flit restlessly, the Wattled broadbill often sits still for long periods, waiting for the right moment to dart out and grab prey.

One thing that makes this bird particularly special is that it is rare and highly localized. You won’t find it outside Mindanao, and even there it prefers dense lowland forests, which are rapidly shrinking. Because of this, the Wattled broadbill is considered Vulnerable, and spotting one in the wild is a prized experience for birdwatchers. Its presence is also a reminder of how important old-growth forests are for the survival of unique Philippine wildlife.

Birders often say that seeing one feels like spotting a living painting, because its colors are so bold and unusual. And while it’s not a noisy bird, its soft, whistling calls carry through the forest, adding a gentle soundtrack to the canopy.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Philippines

<10,000

Official estimate

VU

2017

Breeding, Mindanao