Fantail (Rhipidura fuliginosa)
Piwakawaka

Size: 16cm, 8gm

Description:Small bird, small head and bill, long tail often fanned. Pied phase has grey head, white eyebrow, brown back, yellow underparts, black and white tail. Black phase is all sooty-black except for white spot behind eye.

Habitat: Pied phase found throughout New Zealand, black phase mainly in South Island. Feeds on insects and fruit. Lives in forest, scrub, parks, gardens.

Status: Widespread abundent protected native. One of the most widespread abundent of all New Zealand birds

Breeding: August - March. 2-5 eggs layed per brood. 2-5 broods per season.

Distinguishing Features: Friendly, curious bird. Fan-like tail, erratic flight, almost dances on branches.

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