The songbird of Cebu can now continue to sing.
From endangered to least concerned, the Black Shama is now making a comeback in the wild, allowing us to continue hearing the lovely melody of the Shama.
Live In Cebu
Who is playing that wonderful music? According to the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature), the Black Shama, locally known in Cebu as Siloy, has been given an improved conservation status, indicating that its population numbers have increased. This species had previously declined due to deforestation and habitat loss, which led to its classification as endangered.
The Genus of the Species
The Black Shama is part of the Muscicapidae family and is scientifically named Copsychus cebuensis, which is endemic to the island of Cebu. The male Shama is known for its glossy black plumage, while the female has a sooty gray appearance with a rusty belly. It feeds on insects and thrives in a warm tropical climate, such as moist forests and shrublands. The breeding season lasts from February to September, during which they build cup-shaped nests, typically in bamboo, and lay 2–3 eggs.
The Comeback of the Siloy
Interestingly, the Black Shama was once classified as an endangered species due to habitat loss and deforestation. Remarkably, the Siloy population has grown, leading to its classification changing from endangered to improved and least concerned.
The Black Shama’s song consists of a series of long, slightly out-of-tune, often quavering whistles. The Black Shama is considered a symbol of Cebu and is featured on a 1992 Philippine stamp.
