Black-faced Monarch
NameBlack-faced Monarch
Common NameBlack-faced Monarch
Scientific NameMonarcha melanopsis
FamilyMonarchidae
Wingspan (cm)26.5
Length (cm)17.75
Weight (g)23
Plumage DetailsAdults display a glossy black face and throat, sharply contrasting with a grey head, nape, and upperparts including the back, wings, and tail. The entire underparts from the breast to the vent are a rich rufous-orange. The bill is pale blue-grey with a black tip, and the legs are dark.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a harsh, churring 'chwee-chwee' or a rapid 'ch-ch-ch-ch-ch-ch-ch-ch' call, as well as a distinctive whistling 'whirr-whirr-whirr'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to eastern Australia, breeding from north-eastern Queensland south through coastal New South Wales. Non-breeding populations migrate north to New Guinea and adjacent islands.
Identifying Featuresblack face and throat, grey upperparts, rufous-orange underparts, pale blue-grey bill with black tip
Description
This medium-sized passerine is characterized by its striking black face, grey upperparts, and vibrant rufous-orange underparts. It is an active insectivore, often seen foraging in the mid-canopy of wet forests in eastern Australia.
