Sarcophanops

What makes them extra special is that they are endemic to the Philippines—you won’t find them anywhere else in the world! Currently, there are only two species in this genus: the Visayan broadbill (Sarcophanops samarensis) and the Mindanao broadbill (Sarcophanops steerii), both living in the lush, humid lowland forests of their respective islands. These birds are like hidden gems of the forest—rare, colorful, and mysterious.

Unlike many other broadbills, Sarcophanops species are known for their vivid plumage. They have a striking mix of bright colors: black, chestnut, white, and sometimes pinkish hues, all set off with bold blue eye-rings that give them a quirky, wide-eyed look. Their bills are thick and strong, perfect for catching insects, which make up most of their diet. They’re not flashy fliers but prefer to hop and flutter among branches, picking off insects or waiting to snatch prey mid-air. This slow, methodical hunting style sets them apart from more restless insect-eaters in the forest.

Behaviorally, Sarcophanops broadbills are shy and quiet, usually sticking to dense vegetation where they remain hard to spot. They tend to live in small groups or pairs and use soft calls to communicate. Unlike some forest birds that boldly advertise themselves, these broadbills rely on camouflage and their secretive habits to stay out of sight. Their rounded wings and short tails make them nimble in maneuvering through tangled undergrowth, giving them an advantage in their thick jungle homes.

Their mixed palette of feathers often makes birdwatchers gasp when they finally get a glimpse, since spotting them can take hours of patience. Because they are island specialists, each species has its own unique look, almost like nature painted them differently to match their island homes.