Data Zone
Justification of Red List category
This species has a large range, and hence does not approach the thresholds for Vulnerable under the range size criterion (extent of occurrence <20,000 km2 combined with a declining or fluctuating range size, habitat extent/quality, or population size and a small number of locations or severe fragmentation). The species is suspected to be declining but does not meet or approach the thresholds for Vulnerable under the population trend criterion (>30% decline over ten years or three generations). The population size is unknown and hence does not approach the thresholds for Vulnerable under the population size criterion (<10,000 mature individuals with a continuing decline estimated to be >10% in ten years or three generations, or with a specified population structure). For these reasons the species is evaluated as Least Concern.
Population justification
The population size of this species has not been quantified. It is described as uncommon and local, though likely overlooked (Eaton et al. 2021, J. Pilgrim in litt. 2024). It has been frequently encountered in Nino Konis Santana National Park (C. Trainor in litt. 2020).
Trend justification
This forest-dependent species is precautionarily suspected to be in decline as a result of habitat loss and degradation. Forest cover extent in this species' range reduced by c. 4-5% overall in the three generations to 2022 (Global Forest Watch 2023, based on data from Hansen et al. [2013] and methods disclosed therein). Tentatively, declines are placed in the range 1-9% in three generations and are suspected to continue.
Ficedula timorensis is restricted to Timor, Indonesia and Timor-Leste.
Occurs up to 1,500 m in dense undergrowth of lowland forest and patches of monsoon forest, favouring bamboo (Eaton et al. 2021). It apparently prefers areas with limestone boulders and rocky scree slopes. Although it has been found in degraded forest patches, it shows a preference for primary habitats. It typically forages alone or in pairs, within 2 m of the ground in dense undergrowth, gleaning insects or making short sallying flights (Clement 2020).
It appears to favour areas with closed-canopy forest which are diminishing in extent as a result of logging, clearance for agriculture and mining activities. There is some evidence the species is locally hunted for trade (O. Hidayat in litt. 2024), though the scope and severity of this threat are unknown.
Conservation Actions Underway
No targeted conservation actions are known for this species.
Conservation Actions Proposed
Conduct repeated surveys within the range to determine current distribution and abundance, as well as assess population trends. Monitor population trends. Conduct ecological studies to improve understanding of its precise habitat requirements, particularly tolerance of secondary habitats and response to fragmentation. Protect remaining suitable habitat.
Text account compilers
Vine, J.
Contributors
Trainor, C. & Pilgrim, J.
Recommended citation
BirdLife International (2024) Species factsheet: Black-banded Flycatcher Ficedula timorensis. Downloaded from
https://datazone.birdlife.org/species/factsheet/black-banded-flycatcher-ficedula-timorensis on 22/12/2024.
Recommended citation for factsheets for more than one species: BirdLife International (2024) IUCN Red List for birds. Downloaded from
https://datazone.birdlife.org/species/search on 22/12/2024.