Rhipidura nebulosa
The Samoan Fantail (Rhipidura nebulosa) is a diminutive and agile passerine, endemic to the lush forests of the Samoan archipelago. Measuring approximately 14-16 cm in length and weighing a mere 6-9 grams, it is characterized by its slender build and exceptionally long, often fanned tail. Its plumage is predominantly smoky grey or dusky brown on the upperparts, with paler underparts, often with a subtle buff wash on the belly. A distinctive feature is its white throat, which contrasts with th...
This species primarily inhabits native moist broadleaf forests, ranging from sea level to higher elevations up to 1,300 meters, preferring the understory and midstory strata.
The Samoan Fantail is an insectivore, primarily feeding on small flying insects such as mosquitoes, flies, moths, and beetles, which it catches on the wing.
Samoan Fantails are highly active diurnal birds, constantly in motion as they flit and dart through the forest understory. They are aerial insectivores, employing a characteristic fanning of their long tail to flush out prey, which they then catch mid-air with remarkable agility. Individuals ofte...
The Samoan Fantail is an island endemic, found exclusively within the Samoan archipelago in the South Pacific. Its distribution includes both the independent nation of Samoa (on the islands of Upolu and Savai'i) and American Samoa (primarily on Tutuila and Ta'ū, with probable presence on 'Upolu, ...
Near Threatened
- The Samoan Fantail can turn 180 degrees in mid-air in less than a second, thanks to its unique tail structure and highly maneuverable flight.- Its fanned tail, used for steering and braking, also serves as a 'net' or 'flush' for insects, dislodging them from vegetation or attracting their atten...