Megapodius tenimberensis
The Tanimbar Megapode (Megapodius tenimberensis) is a fascinating, medium-sized terrestrial gamebird strictly endemic to the remote Tanimbar Islands of Indonesia. Measuring approximately 38 cm in length and possessing a stocky build, this species is characterized by its dull, dark olive-brown plumage, providing superb camouflage within its dense forest habitat. Distinctive field marks include a small, barely perceptible crest, a bare, greyish-slate face, and sturdy reddish-brown legs exceptio...
This species primarily inhabits lowland and montane tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests, often found in dense undergrowth, coastal thickets, and disturbed forest edges.
The Tanimbar Megapode's diet consists mainly of invertebrates, including insects and worms, supplemented by fallen seeds, fruits, and berries found by scratching through forest leaf litter.
The Tanimbar Megapode is a secretive, largely terrestrial bird, typically active during crepuscular hours and early morning, though it can be seen foraging throughout the day. It spends most of its time on the forest floor, meticulously scratching through leaf litter and soil with its powerful fe...
The Tanimbar Megapode is strictly endemic to the Tanimbar Islands archipelago, part of the Maluku province of Indonesia, making its entire global distribution confined to this relatively small island group. Its presence has been confirmed across several key islands within the group, including Yam...
Near Threatened
- The Tanimbar Megapode is one of the only bird species in the world that does not incubate its eggs directly with body heat, instead relying on external warmth from incubation mounds. - Chicks are super-precocial, hatching fully feathered and capable of flight and complete independence within ho...