Phylloscopus makirensis
The Makira Leaf Warbler (*Phylloscopus makirensis*) is a petite and agile songbird, measuring approximately 10-11 cm in length, endemic to the Solomon Islands' Makira (San Cristobal) Island. Its appearance is characterized by vibrant greenish-olive upperparts that contrast with pale yellowish-white underparts, often featuring a brighter yellow wash on the flanks and vent. A striking, bright yellow supercilium stands out against a dark loral and eye-stripe, serving as a key identification mark...
This warbler exclusively inhabits montane and lowland primary forest, as well as mature secondary growth, on Makira Island, typically found from near sea level up to 1400 meters.
The Makira Leaf Warbler is primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of small insects and other invertebrates gleaned from foliage and sometimes caught in flight.
The Makira Leaf Warbler exhibits a highly active, restless demeanor, constantly flitting through the canopy and sub-canopy layers of its forest habitat. It primarily forages by gleaning small insects and other invertebrates from leaves and twigs, often hanging upside down to inspect foliage, and ...
The Makira Leaf Warbler is strictly endemic to Makira Island, also known as San Cristobal Island, which is part of the Solomon Islands archipelago in the South Pacific. This species is a non-migratory resident, occupying its island home year-round across its entire life cycle. It can be found fro...
Least Concern
- This warbler is a true island specialist, found nowhere else in the world except Makira (San Cristobal) Island in the Solomon Islands. - Its scientific name, *makirensis*, directly translates to 'from Makira', honoring its sole geographic home. - Despite its 'Least Concern' conservation status,...