Samoan Fantail
NameSamoan Fantail
Common NameSamoan Fantail
Scientific NameRhipidura nebulosa
FamilyRhipiduridae
Wingspan (cm)18
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)8
Plumage DetailsPredominantly dark sooty-brown to greyish-brown plumage, often appearing uniformly dark. It typically has a faint whitish supercilium (eyebrow) and a small white spot behind the eye. The long tail is dark, sometimes showing faint paler edges on the outer feathers when fanned.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a series of high-pitched, squeaky notes, often delivered rapidly, and a chattering or trilling song.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the islands of Savai'i and Upolu in Samoa, where it inhabits montane and lowland tropical moist forests.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Dark sooty-brown plumage, Long, fanned tail, Active, acrobatic flight, Faint white supercilium and post-ocular spot
Description
The Samoan Fantail is a small, active passerine bird endemic to Samoa, characterized by its dark, sooty plumage. It is known for its acrobatic flight and habit of fanning its long tail while foraging for insects in the forest understory.
