Whitehead
NameWhitehead
Common NameWhitehead
Scientific NameMohoua albicilla
FamilyMohouidae
Wingspan (cm)19
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)19
Plumage DetailsMales have a pure white head, throat, and underparts, which contrast sharply with their warm brown back, wings, and tail. Females and juveniles are similar but may exhibit a slightly duller or buffier wash on the head.
Vocalization / CallWhiteheads have a varied repertoire of calls, including a distinctive 'churr' or 'churrr-churrr' contact call used by foraging flocks. Their song is a melodious, chattering series of notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the North Island of New Zealand and several of its offshore islands, including Little Barrier Island and Kapiti Island.
Identifying Featurespure white head and underparts, warm brown back, wings, and tail, small size, active, flocking behavior, endemic to New Zealand's North Island
Description
The Whitehead is a small, active passerine endemic to New Zealand's North Island, easily recognized by its striking white head and underparts. These social birds often forage in flocks, moving through the forest canopy and understory in search of insects.
