- Source: Visayan miniature babbler
The Visayan miniature babbler (Micromacronus leytensis) or the Leyte plumed-warbler is a bird species in the family Cisticolidae.
It is endemic to the Philippines found in the islands of Samar and Leyte with no records on Leyte since collection. Along with the Mindanao miniature babbler which was previously conspecific with, it is one of the smallest birds in South East Asia at only 7cm in size. Its natural habitats are tropical moist lowland forest. It is one of the least known birds in the Philippines having only been rediscovered in 2016.
Description and taxonomy
EBird describes the bird as "A tiny and very little-known bird of foothill forest on Samar and Leyte islands. Yellow below, with a broad yellow eyebrow and olive upperparts. Note the reddish eye and the long white plumes sprouting from the sides, lower back, and rump. Voice thought to be similar to that of Mindanao Plumed-Warbler, which gives a sibilant chatter.
They have been observed to join mixed species flocks of white-eyes and flowerpeckers flying through and middle and high cannopy. Its diet is presumed to be small insects and possibly small fruits. Due to its habits and size, it is believed to be overlooked.
Habitat and conservation status
All recent records of this bird are in Samar Island Natural Park. While this area is listed as a national park, protection is lax and illegal logging and habitat encroachment are still rampant.
Conservation actions proposed include further surveys in suitable habitat especially in Leyte to better understand its range and enforcement of laws on illegal loggers in its habitat.
References
Collar, N.J. & Robson, C. (2007): Family Timaliidae (Babblers). In: del Hoyo, Josep; Elliott, Andrew & Christie, D.A. (eds.): Handbook of Birds of the World, Volume 12 (Picathartes to Tits and Chickadees): 70-291. Lynx Edicions, Barcelona.