Hooded Monarch
NameHooded Monarch
Common NameHooded Monarch
Scientific NameMonarcha cinerascens
FamilyMonarchidae
Wingspan (cm)22.5
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)17.5
Plumage DetailsAdults have a glossy black head, throat, upperparts, and tail, forming a distinct 'hood'. The underparts are clean white, sometimes with a faint grey wash on the flanks. The bill and legs are black.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations typically consist of clear, whistled notes, often delivered in a series, and may include churring or buzzing calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across various islands in Wallacea and Melanesia, including parts of Indonesia (e.g., Sulawesi, Lesser Sundas), Papua New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands.
Identifying FeaturesBlack hood covering head and throat, Pure white belly and breast, Black back and tail, Small, active flycatcher behavior
Description
The Hooded Monarch is a small, active passerine bird characterized by its striking black and white plumage. It forages primarily for insects in the mid-canopy and undergrowth of tropical forests, often seen darting through foliage.
