Distribution Map
Yellow-breasted Boatbill
Machaerirhynchus flaviventer
NativeStatus
UncommonRarity
Bird Gallery
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Species Description
The Yellow-breasted Boatbill (*Machaerirhynchus flaviventer*) is a small, rainforest flycatcher found in the canopies of North Queensland and New Guinea. Best known for its unusually broad, flat bill, this species adds a splash of colour to the shaded rainforest mid- and upper-levels.
Fun Facts
Their nests are so delicate that eggs can sometimes be seen through the woven walls.
1. Broad, flat, boat-shaped black bill
2. Male: black head and upperparts, white throat and wingbars, bright yellow underparts
3. Tail often cocked upward while perching nearly horizontally
These birds specialise in catching insects with their unique bill, foraging both in the canopy and occasionally descending to lower levels or riverbanks after rain. Breeding occurs from August to March. Both sexes build a delicate, lace-like nest suspended in a horizontal fork high above the ground. The typical clutch size is two eggs, and both parents share incubation duties, ensuring the eggs are left exposed for only brief moments during changeovers.
Yellow-breasted Boatbills are found in the rainforests of North Queensland, from the Paluma Range north to Cape York, and across New Guinea. They frequent the mid to upper canopy, often joining mixed-species flocks. Early morning is the best time to spot them as they sit motionless on horizontal branches or dart out to catch insects. Listen for their musical, chip-like calls echoing through the forest.
Physical Attributes
Height
12 cm
Size Relative to Other Birds7%
Top Locations
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Top birding locations will be available in a future update.