Papuan Spinetail
NamePapuan Spinetail
Common NamePapuan Spinetail
Scientific NameMearnsia novaeguineae
FamilyApodidae
Wingspan (cm)32
Length (cm)11.5
Weight (g)20
Plumage DetailsPlumage is predominantly dark sooty-brown on the upperparts and wings, contrasting with paler greyish-brown underparts, particularly on the belly and vent. It has a distinct white throat patch.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations consist of high-pitched, thin 'tsee-tsee-tsee' or 'sree-sree-sree' calls, often uttered while in flight.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the island of New Guinea, found in lowland and montane tropical moist forests.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size (11-12 cm), Dark sooty-brown plumage with paler underparts and white throat, Short, square tail (not deeply forked), Rapid, erratic flight pattern, Often seen flying high above forest canopy
Description
The Papuan Spinetail is a small, dark swift characterized by its rapid, erratic flight. It typically soars over the canopy of tropical forests, catching insects on the wing.
