Data Zone
Justification of Red List category
This poorly known and apparently rare species is likely to be declining moderately rapidly as a result of habitat loss. It is therefore currently considered Near Threatened, but further studies are urgently required to clarify its status and threats.
Population justification
The global population size has not been quantified, but the species is described as rare everywhere within its range (del Hoyo et al. 2006).
Trend justification
Little is known of the status of this species, but it is likely to have been negatively affected by habitat loss across much of its range, suggesting that a moderately rapid decline is probable.
Hypothymis helenae is endemic to the Philippines where it is distributed widely but patchily, on Camiguin Norte (race personata), Luzon, Polillo, Catanduanes and Samar (nominate helenae), Dinagat, Siargao and Mindanao (race agusanae) (Collar et al. 1999). It is generally rare, with very few records on Luzon and Mindanao. Reportedly common historically on Camiguin Norte and Dinagat, although a repeat visit to the latter in 1994 failed to confirm this. It is reported to be common on Samar and may be locally so on Luzon.
This species is poorly known, but is reported to occupy the understorey of forest below 1,000 m.
Habitat loss, through regulated and illegal logging as well as conversion to agriculture, is likely to have affected this species, although there is little information on the magnitude of these threats.
Conservation Actions Underway
No targeted conservation actions are known for this species, although some of its habitat is protected.
Conservation Actions Proposed
Conduct repeated surveys within the species's range to determine current distribution and abundance, as well as assess population trends and rates of habitat loss. Conduct ecological studies to improve understanding of its precise habitat requirements, tolerance of secondary habitats and response to fragmentation. Protect areas of suitable habitat.
Text account compilers
Gilroy, J., Benstead, P., Taylor, J., Wheatley, H.
Recommended citation
BirdLife International (2024) Species factsheet: Short-crested Monarch Hypothymis helenae. Downloaded from
https://datazone.birdlife.org/species/factsheet/short-crested-monarch-hypothymis-helenae on 22/11/2024.
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 22/11/2024.