Lamprolia klinesmithi
The Natewa Silktail (Lamprolia klinesmithi) is a breathtakingly beautiful passerine, a true jewel of Fiji's vanishing rainforests. This small bird, measuring approximately 12-13 cm, is characterized by its glossy, jet-black plumage that shimmers with an iridescent blue-purple sheen, starkly contrasted by a brilliant white lower back, rump, and the base of its tail. The tips of its rectrices are black, creating a distinct white-banded tail appearance. Its velvety, silken feathers give it its e...
Exclusively found in primary and mature secondary montane and hill rainforests, typically at elevations between 200 and 800 meters.
Feeds primarily on small invertebrates, mainly insects and spiders, gleaned from foliage and bark, or caught in agile aerial sallies.
The Natewa Silktail is a perpetually active and agile bird, primarily observed singly or in pairs, though it may occasionally join mixed-species foraging flocks. It typically forages in the lower to mid-canopy and understory of dense rainforest, constantly moving and flicking its tail. Its primar...
The Natewa Silktail is critically restricted in its geographic distribution, being endemic solely to the Natewa Peninsula on Vanua Levu, Fiji. It is a non-migratory resident species, found year-round within the wet montane and hill rainforests of this specific peninsula. Its entire known breeding...
Vulnerable
- The Natewa Silktail was only formally described as a distinct species in 2009, making it a relatively recent discovery for ornithology. - It is named in honor of Andrew Klinesmith, a dedicated conservationist who played a crucial role in securing protected areas on Vanua Levu, Fiji. - This bird...