The Chatham Islands gerygone, also known as the Chatham gerygone or Chatham Island warbler, is a species of bird in the family Acanthizidae. It is endemic to the Chatham Islands. The Chatham Islands gerygone is larger than and differs in plumage from the related grey warbler of mainland New Zealand. Both warblers were discovered and named by G. R. Gray in 1845. The grey and Chatham Island warblers are the only two members of the Australasian family Acanthizidae found in New Zealand.
Region
South Pacific (Chatham Islands)
Typical Environment
Occurs throughout the main Chatham Islands and nearby islets where suitable shrubland and forest remain. It frequents coastal scrub, forest edges, regenerating bush, and wind-sheltered thickets. The species readily uses native shrubs and low canopy for foraging and nesting. It may also be seen in shelterbelts and gardens near forest fragments. Because the islands are low-lying, it occupies a broad range of microhabitats from dunes to inland patches of forest.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 300 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the Chatham Island warbler, this is one of only two Acanthizidae found in New Zealand, the other being the grey warbler of the mainland. It is larger and has distinctive facial markings compared with its mainland relative. The species builds a characteristic domed, hanging nest with a side entrance and a trailing ‘tail’ of fibers. First described by G. R. Gray in 1845, it is confined to the remote Chatham Islands.
Chatham Islands gerygone nest from the collection of Auckland Museum
Temperament
active and inquisitive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile fluttering among shrubs
Social Behavior
Typically seen as pairs or family groups and strongly territorial in the breeding season. Builds a pendant, domed nest suspended from twigs or foliage, with a side entrance and a trailing tail of plant fibers. Both adults share in feeding the nestlings and fledglings. Outside the breeding season, small loose groups may forage together in suitable scrub.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
The male delivers a sweet, high-pitched, warbling series of trills and clear notes that carry well in scrubby habitat. Calls include soft contact chips and thin seee notes. Song is persistent during the breeding season and used for territory advertisement and mate communication.
