Philippine Creepers: Rhabdornithidae

In most of the recent past, these birds have been grouped with the northern creepers (family Certhidae), which is why they are often called Philippine creepers. Although they are called "creepers," their behavior is not very creeper-like. In fact, they act more like chickadees and titmice while in flocks of mixed species of birds. Philippine creepers are diurnal (active during the day) and arboreal (living in trees). They do not migrate (move between habitats) other than with regards to local movements in their permanent territory. They are very social birds, often found foraging with a flock of birds both within and outside of their family. Other specific behaviors with other birds are not known for certain due to a lack of adequate study and research. Their songs and calls are also unknown. At dusk, groups of the birds roost in the upper branches of trees. Little information is known about the reproduction activities of Philippine creepers. It is known that they nest in tree crevasses (cracks), but it is unknown what type of nesting material is used inside the nest. Also unknown is specific information about the number and coloring of eggs laid by the birds. Breeding probably begins in March but may occur at other times during the year.