pitohuis

Pitohuis are a genus of passerine birds native to New Guinea and surrounding islands. They are known for their striking plumage and, more remarkably, for their poisonous skin and feathers. There are four recognized species within the genus Pitohui: the Hooded Pitohui, the Variable Pitohui, the Black-headed Pitohui, and the Rusty Pitohui.

The toxicity of pitohuis was a significant scientific discovery, revealing that these birds sequester a potent neurotoxic alkaloid, batrachotoxin, from their diet. This toxin is also found in poison dart frogs of the family Dendrobatidae. The primary food source believed to contain this toxin is certain species of beetles, particularly the *Choresine* genus.

Pitohuis are medium-sized birds, typically measuring between 20 and 25 centimeters in length. Their coloration varies by species, but often includes bold patterns of black, white, orange, and rufous. Their diet consists mainly of fruits, insects, and small vertebrates. The presence of batrachotoxin in their tissues is thought to be a defense mechanism against predators and parasites. Handling pitohuis can be dangerous, as the toxin can be absorbed through the skin and mucous membranes, causing numbness and a burning sensation. Scientific research into pitohuis has provided valuable insights into the evolution of toxicity in birds and interspecies toxicological interactions.