Atiu Swiftlet

Tiny, gem-like, woodland kingfisher. Note the orange face with a purple cheek mark and the narrow, dark blue crown. Found in the understory of woodland, thickets, and some forests. Inconspicuous bird that sits motionless for long periods before darting after prey. Call is a harsh “tsik,” often given in flight. Similar to Malachite Kingfisher, but smaller, has more orange on the face, and prefers upland habitats. Very similar to African Dwarf-Kingfisher, but pygmy-kingfisher has a dark crown.

A massive black-and-white megapode with a rose-pink breast and a diagnostic prominent knob on the nape. Found in lowland and hill forest, in areas near beaches or areas with volcanic sands in which they lay their eggs. Immatures show a blacker head with a white throat and a tufted crest. Occurs in pairs that forage on the ground and roost in trees by night. Often best seen at known egg-laying sites, either during laying sessions, or roosting in trees nearby. Generally silent, but occasionally gives a loud, bubbling “waow.”

Drab brown songbird with a streaky white breast. Also note streaking on crown. Tends to perch rather upright on exposed snags and other perches, often sallying out to snatch insects and returning to the same perch (“flycatching”). Favors open mixed and deciduous woodland with clearings, as well as scrub, parkland, larger gardens, and plantations. Song is composed of high-pitched squeaky single or double notes, often with a trilled quality. Calls include high-pitched “tseet” and descending “djeer” notes.