The genus Rhabdornis was introduced in 1853 by German naturalist Ludwig Reichenbach to accommodate the stripe-headed rhabdornis.

"[2] The relationship of the Philippine creepers to other bird species was formerly uncertain and the genus Rhabdornis was placed in its own family Rhabdornithinae.

[3][4] Molecular phylogenetic studies have revealed that the Philippine creepers are aberrant members of the starling family Sturnidae.

[5][6][7] The genus contains four species:[8] The Philippine creepers are similar in appearance to treecreepers (Certhiidae).

They have thin pointed down-curved bills, which they can use to extricate insects from bark, but they have brush-like tongues, which enable them to also feed on nectar.