Acanthisitta chloris
The Rifleman, or Tītipounamu, is New Zealand's smallest endemic bird, a true jewel of the native forest. Measuring a mere 7-9 cm in length and weighing just 6-9 grams, it is a tiny, energetic avian acrobat. Males display a striking olive-green back, yellow-green rump, and white underparts, contrasted with dark brown wings and tail, often sporting a white supercilium. Females are more subtly attired, with brownish-grey upperparts, buffy-white underparts, and a streaked head, providing a clear ...
Found primarily in mature native forests, particularly Nothofagus (beech) and podocarp-broadleaf forests, from sea level up to the tree-line.
Mainly insectivorous, feeding on a variety of small insects, spiders, and other invertebrates, which they glean and probe from bark and foliage.
Riflemen are highly active, diurnal birds, often observed foraging almost constantly throughout the day. Their unique foraging strategy involves spiraling up and down tree trunks and branches, much like a nuthatch, meticulously gleaning insects from bark crevices and moss. They are highly territo...
The Rifleman is endemic to New Zealand, inhabiting both the North and South Islands, as well as several smaller offshore islands. It is widely distributed across these landmasses, primarily frequenting dense native forests. Its preferred habitats include Nothofagus (beech) forests, podocarp-broad...
Least Concern
- The Rifleman is New Zealand's smallest bird, weighing less than a golf ball. - It belongs to the ancient avian family Acanthisittidae, making it a 'basal passerine' - one of the oldest lineages of songbirds on Earth. - Its Māori name, 'Tītipounamu,' is thought to refer to its small size and gre...