Fernbird

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iFernbird
Conservation status
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Aves
Order: Passeriformes
Family: Sylviidae
Genus: Megalurus
Species: M. punctatus
Binomial name
Megalurus punctatus
(Quoy & Gaimard, 1830)
Synonyms

Bowdleria punctata

The Fernbird or Matata (Megalurus punctatus) is an insectivorous bird endemic to New Zealand. It is a rich brown above and white below, with brown spots on both the throat and breast. The tail feathers are thin, dark brown, and spine-like. The birds reach a length of 18 cm (7 in).

The Fernbird is a ground-dwelling bird, and is a reluctant flier, travelling mainly on foot or in occasional short flights of less than 15 metres. It has suffered greatly in recent years from the reduction of its natural habitat (swamp land).

There are six fully protected sub-species of Fernbird:

  • Megalurus punctatus punctatus (South Island Fernbird)
  • Megalurus punctatus vealeae (North Island Fernbird)
  • Megalurus punctatus stewartiana (Stewart Island Fernbird)
  • Megalurus punctatus wilsoni (Codfish Island Fernbird)
  • Megalurus punctatus caudata (Snares Fernbird)
  • Megalurus punctatus insularis.

Megalurus punctatus rufescens (the Chatham Islands Fernbird) is believed to have become extinct circa 1900.

The birds nest in sedges or other vegetation close to the ground, making a deep woven cup of dried rushes lined with feathers. Breeding occurs from September to February, producing clutches of 2-3 pinkish-white eggs with brown or purple speckles.


[edit] References

  • BirdLife International (2004). Bowdleria punctata. 2006 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. IUCN 2006. Retrieved on 12 May 2006. Database entry includes justification for why this species is of least concern
  • Falla, R.A., Sibson, R.B., and Turbott, E.G. (1970). A Field Guide to the Birds of New Zealand. London: Collins. ISBN 0-00-212022-4
  • Marshall, J., Kinsky, F.C., and Robinson, C.J.R. (1972). The Fiat Book of Common birds in New Zealand. Wellington: A.H. and A.W. Reed. ISBN 0-589-00230-0
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