RED-BELLIED PITTA of Mt. Makiling

[Ramon Quisumbing]

RED-BELLIED PITTA (Pitta erythrogaster) - probably Female
Resident. This is the erythrogaster subspecies endemic to most of the Philippines.
Taken in Makiling Botanical Gardens, Laguna on 6/29/13.
Canon 1DX camera, Canon 600 mm lens, tripod, hide.

We waited more than 2 hours for the RBP, when this female or young RBP suddenly showed up without a sound. This was my closest encounter ever with the RBP. She gave us so many close looks. This photo is nearly full-frame. ;D


F/5.6, ISO-3200, 1/60 second.

Here, the RBP seems to be showing off her red belly. Actually, she puffed out her breast and stomach in order to bellow out a loud mournful call -- and it was quite different from the RBP calls we were playing. Interesting!

F/5.6, ISO-2000, 1/60 second.


F/5.6, ISO-1600, 1/60 second.

[William Lim]

Great capture, Ramon.

[Tonji Ramos]

Great set Ramon.

[Ramon Quisumbing]

Thank you, William and Tonji.

[Ely Teehankee]

An example of patience paying off. In another month or two the feathers should be in better shape. Good photos of a not so good feathered friend. Congratulations on your tenacity & perseverance.

[Ramon Quisumbing]

Thanks, Ely. I was wondering if this RBP was a female, because the feathers are not as bright as expected.

[Ely Teehankee]

Jul 2, 2013 3:02:12 GMT Ramon Quisumbing said:

Thanks, Ely. I was wondering if this RBP was a female, because the feathers are not as bright as expected.

It looks like it has not completed its molting stage.

[Tateo Osawa]

Nice shots, Ramon. Good timing in taking the last photo.

[Ramon Quisumbing]

Thanks again, Tateo-san.