Chestnut-capped Babbler song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Chestnut-capped Babbler, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

A distinctive, melodious, and often repeated phrase, typically described as a series of clear, whistled notes, 'chee-chee-chee-choo-choo' or 'pi-pi-pi-pu-pu', often accelerating and rising or falling in pitch. It can be quite musical and carries well through dense vegetation.

Calls

A variety of contact calls, including soft 'churr' or 'chup' notes, and a sharp 'tchik' or 'tsit' alarm call when disturbed. Flocks maintain constant communication with soft chattering and twittering sounds.

When they vocalize

Vocalizes throughout the day, but most frequently in the early morning and late afternoon. Calls are particularly prominent during the breeding season.

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