Wallace's Fairywren

The Wallace's fairywren (Sipodotus wallacii) is a diminutive and charming bird, part of the Maluridae family. It is the sole representative of the genus Sipodotus, distinguished by its striking plumage and the nearly identical appearance of both sexes. This species measures between 11 and 12.5 cm in length and tips the scales at a mere 7 to 8 grams.

Identification Tips

Adult males of this species boast a black crown and nape, adorned with blue feather tips, and a black face marked by an incomplete white eye-ring and white ear-tufts. Their scapulars and back are a rustic brown, while the upperwings are a brownish-grey. The underparts are white, and the tail is brown. The beak is black, long, broad, straight, and bluntly pointed with a white tip. The iris is red-brown, and the legs are short and flesh-brown. Females resemble males but have a pale yellowish wash on the throat and a less vibrant crown. The subspecies coronatus is noted for a creamy wash on the underparts.

Habitat

Wallace's fairywren is a denizen of subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, preferring areas with dense tangles of vines and climbing bamboo, particularly at forest edges.

Distribution

This species is endemic to New Guinea and the Aru Islands, commonly found from sea level to elevations of 1,200 meters, though it is most frequently observed between 100 and 800 meters above sea level.

Behaviour

Wallace's fairywren is often seen flitting about in trees rather than foraging in the undergrowth, typically at heights ranging from 2 to 10 meters, but it can venture from the forest floor to the lofty canopy up to 40 meters high.

Song & Calls

While not much is known about the vocal repertoire of this species, foraging parties have been noted to emit a hissing "see see see see" call.

Breeding

Breeding can occur year-round, with a peak from September to December. Nests are domed with a hooded side entrance, constructed from fine grass, cobwebs, and palm frond strips, and are often adorned with moss and epiphytes. They are usually placed in vines at heights of 5 to 10 meters. Eggs are believed to be laid in clutches of two, and chicks are tended to by both parents.

Diet and Feeding

Primarily insectivorous, Wallace's fairywren feeds on insects and spiders, foraging by gleaning and probing in forest tangles and thickets. It is known to forage in family groups, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks.

Conservation status

The IUCN has classified Wallace's fairywren as Least Concern. It is a common species throughout its range, although habitat destruction due to rainforest clearing could pose a future threat.