The rusty-breasted whistler (Pachycephala calliope, previously Pachycephala fulvotincta), also known as the fulvous-tinted whistler, is a species of bird in the family Pachycephalidae. It is endemic to Indonesia, where it ranges from Java east to Alor and north to the Selayar Islands.

Taxonomy and systematics

The rusty-breasted whistler is variably considered as either a subspecies of the widespread Australian golden whistler or treated as a separate species, but strong published evidence in favour of either treatment is limited, and further study is warranted to resolve the complex taxonomic situation. The name 'rusty-breasted whistler' is also used as an alternate name for the rusty whistler. With the transfer of the subspecies calliope from the yellow-throated whistler to the rusty-breasted whistler, on the basis of priority the scientific name changed from Pachycephala fulvotincta Wallace, 1864 to Pachycephala calliope Bonaparte, 1850. Five subspecies are recognised: The Selayar whistler (Pachycephala teysmanni) was formerly considered as a subspecies.

Description

Compared to other members of the golden whistler group, the rusty-breasted whistler is relatively small, and males have a white throat and a rust-tinged chest, except in the subspecies teysmanni from Selayar Islands where the plumage of the male is female-like.

Distribution and habitat

It is the westernmost member of the golden whistler group, being bordered to the east by the black-chinned and yellow-throated whistlers, and to the south by the Australian golden whistler.