Mangrove Robin

The Mangrove Robin (Peneothello pulverulenta) is a small passerine bird, a member of the family Petroicidae. It exhibits sexual dimorphism in size, with males averaging a weight of 21.3 grams and females slightly lighter at 17.3 grams. The species is characterized by its rounded wings and tail, adaptations that aid in manoeuvring through dense mangrove forests.

Identification Tips

This bird can be identified by its relatively inconspicuous "dull pale bar" at the bottom of the remiges. The outer rectrices display a hint of white, which may be observed during flight or when the tail is fanned.

Habitat

The Mangrove Robin is aptly named for its preferred habitat—tropical and subtropical mangrove forests situated above the high tide mark. It is a species that rarely ventures beyond this unique ecosystem.

Distribution

The Mangrove Robin is native to the Aru Islands, New Guinea, and northern Australia. It is divided into four subspecies, each with a specific geographic range: P. p. pulverulenta in coastal New Guinea, P. p. leucura in the Aru Islands and northeast coast of Australia, P. p. alligator in coastal northern Australia and nearby islands, and P. p. cinereiceps along the northwest coast of Australia.

Song & Calls

The Mangrove Robin's vocalization is described as a down-slurred whistle, a sound that resonates through the mangroves where it resides.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Mangrove Robin consists mainly of insects and crabs, which it hunts for in the mudflats exposed by receding tides.

Conservation Status

The IUCN Red List has classified the Mangrove Robin as Least Concern. The population appears stable over the last decade, and the bird occupies a large range exceeding 426,000 square kilometres.