It is differentiated from the Asian brown flycatcher, which is migratory and may be found in the same areas by its shorter wings as the Ashy-breasted is a forest endemic and does not migrate.

[4] Birds caught in August and September at Dalton Pass, Luzon, suggest that it may undertake intra-island movements, but possibly little more than post-breeding dispersal.

In 1988, it was estimated that as little as 4% of original forest remained on Negros, 24% on Luzon with these figures continuing to decline.

In 1988, it was estimated that as little as 4% of original forest remained on Negros, 24% on Luzon with these figures continuing to decline.

It has also been found in the proposed area of Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park which has received conservation funding.

Conservation actions proposed include to re-examine museum specimens of Muscicapa flycatchers from the Philippines to check identification, in order to resolve its anomalous distribution.