Rhipidura coultasi
The White-gorgeted Fantail, *Rhipidura coultasi*, is a diminutive and dynamic passerine endemic to the islands of the Bismarck Archipelago and Misool. Measuring approximately 15-16 cm in length and weighing a mere 8-10 grams, it is characterized by its predominantly dark grey to black plumage, offset by a striking white gorget (throat patch) and a prominent white supercilium (eyebrow stripe). Its most distinctive field mark, characteristic of all fantails, is its long, constantly fanned tail,...
This species primarily inhabits primary and mature secondary lowland rainforests, preferring areas with dense undergrowth and often found near forest edges or clearings. It typically occurs from sea level up to elevations of about 1,200 meters.
It feeds almost exclusively on small insects and other arthropods, which it captures primarily by aerial hawking or gleaning from foliage and bark.
The White-gorgeted Fantail is a perpetually active and restless diurnal bird, known for its almost continuous tail fanning and wing flicking as it moves through the understory. Its foraging strategy is primarily aerial hawking, sallying from a perch to snatch flying insects, though it also gleans...
The White-gorgeted Fantail is an island endemic, found exclusively within the Indo-Pacific region. Its primary distribution encompasses the Bismarck Archipelago, specifically New Britain, New Ireland, and a scattering of smaller associated islands, where the nominate subspecies *Rhipidura coultas...
Least Concern
- The White-gorgeted Fantail's tail is in near-constant motion, fanning and flicking, which helps to flush out hidden insects from vegetation. - Despite its small size, it is an incredibly agile and acrobatic flier, capable of intricate aerial maneuvers to catch prey. - This species is known to j...