Overview
The Wattled Broadbill (Eurylaimus steerii) is an enchanting, gorgeously plumaged passerine endemic to the lowland dipterocarp forests of the southern Philippines. Known for its colossal, swollen sky-blue bill and an enormous fleshy, electric-blue wattle encircling each eye, this secretive canopy bird combines striking ornamental anatomy with gentle foraging habits, serving as an irreplaceable flagship for Philippine forest conservation.
Biology and Physical Characteristics
Measuring roughly seventeen centimeters, the Wattled Broadbill features a velvety black crown, shimmering lilac-purple breast, pristine white throat, and a bright yellow wing bar contrasting against dark slate wings and a chestnut-red rump. Its most defining characteristic is the immense, bare sky-blue ocular wattle that frames emerald-green eyes, matched by a heavy, flattened turquoise-blue beak adapted for capturing bulky insects and soft tropical fruits.
Behavior and Ecology
Quiet and unobtrusive, the Wattled Broadbill typically perches quietly on mid-canopy lianas and horizontal branches, scanning the surrounding foliage for katydids, tree crickets, and spiders before launching into agile sallies. Pairs construct elaborate, pear-shaped purselike nests woven from moss, palm fibers, and rootlets, suspended high over forest creeks and limestone gullies, complete with an exterior layer of hanging leaves that camouflages the structure from predatory raptors.
Conservation and Human Impact
Listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, the Wattled Broadbill has suffered catastrophic habitat loss as nearly ninety percent of lowland dipterocarp rainforest across Mindanao, Bohol, and Samar has been cleared for logging and agricultural plantations. The species relies heavily on remaining intact blocks in Rajah Sikatuna Protected Landscape and Mount Apo Natural Park, where forest protection rangers patrol against illegal timber poaching.
Interesting Factoid
The Wattled Broadbill looks like it is wearing bright blue neon goggles: its eyes are encircled by thick, fleshy sky-blue wattles that match the color of its broad turquoise bill.
Last updated: October 2026