Data Zone
Justification of Red List category
This apparently uncommon and poorly known species is likely to be declining moderately rapidly in line with rates of deforestation across its range. It is considered Near Threatened, and should be monitored carefully for future changes in the rate of decline.
Population justification
The global population size has not been quantified, but the species is described as generally rare or uncommon, although locally common in the Sierra Madre, Luzon (del Hoyo et al. 2007).
Trend justification
Moderately rapid declines in this species's population are likely to be occurring in line with rapid and on-going habitat loss throughout its range.
Parus semilarvatus is endemic to the Philippines, where it occurs on Luzon (race snowi in the northern Sierra Madre, nominate semilarvatus in the central and southern Sierra Madre and a few other sites to the south and west) and Mindanao (race nehrkorni, known from some eight localities) (Collar et al. 1999). It is generally characterised as rare and local, although it is moderately common in the Sierra Madre.
This species inhabits primary forest, edge and secondary growth in lowlands and hills, up to around 1,150 m.
The rapid and large-scale destruction of forests in recent years in the Philippines has undoubtedly reduced the area of available habitat for this species.
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 its 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. Effectively protect significant areas of suitable habitat at key sites, in both strictly protected areas and community-led multiple use areas.
Text account compilers
Benstead, P., Wheatley, H., Gilroy, J., Taylor, J.
Recommended citation
BirdLife International (2024) Species factsheet: White-fronted Tit Sittiparus semilarvatus. Downloaded from
https://datazone.birdlife.org/species/factsheet/white-fronted-tit-sittiparus-semilarvatus 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.