Tomtit (petroica macrocephala)
Miromiro, Ngiru-ngiru

Size: 13 cm, 11 gm

Description: The males of the two most common subspecies (North Is and South Is) have black head, glossy back upperparts and upper breast with white underparts. Southerners have yellowish tinge at dividing line. Females have brown upperparts and head with grey brown chin and light underparts.

Habitat: Scrub, forest - especially beech forest

Status: Protected endemic. Widespread, locally common.

Breeding: September - November. 3-6 eggs. Female incubates and broods chicks. She is regularly fed by the male.

Distinguishing Features: Distinctive black and white male markings. Female less easily distinguished.

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