The chestnut-throated flycatcher is a species of bird in the monarch-flycatcher family Monarchidae. The species is endemic to Fiji.
Region
Fiji (Southwest Pacific)
Typical Environment
Occurs in native lowland and foothill forests, including primary rainforest and well-developed secondary growth. It frequents forest edges, riparian corridors, and occasionally wooded plantations and gardens near forest. The species typically hunts from midstory and subcanopy perches, making short sallies into open spaces between foliage. While it tolerates some habitat disturbance, it remains most common in intact forest mosaics.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This monarch-flycatcher is confined to Fiji and is notable for its rich chestnut throat, which contrasts with its otherwise dark head and paler underparts. It forages by sallying from shaded perches to snatch flying insects. Recent taxonomic work recognizes it as distinct within the Myiagra flycatchers of Fiji. It helps regulate forest insect populations and adapts moderately well to secondary growth.
Temperament
active and somewhat territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick sallies from perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs within territories. During breeding, pairs build a small cup nest on a horizontal branch or fork, often well concealed. Both adults participate in incubation and feeding of chicks. Outside breeding, it may join mixed-species flocks along forest edges.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, whistled notes and thin squeaks delivered from a shaded perch. Calls include sharp chips and soft chatter during foraging, with more persistent whistling during courtship and territory defense.
Plumage
Compact flycatcher with a dark, slightly glossy head, a distinct chestnut throat and upper breast, and paler grayish to whitish underparts. Upperparts are dusky to slate with a subtle sheen; wings are darker with faint edging.
Diet
Primarily hunts flying insects such as flies, moths, beetles, and other small arthropods. It employs sit-and-wait tactics, sallying from a perch to catch prey on the wing. It also gleans from leaves and branches when insects are inactive. Occasional small berries may be taken opportunistically.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along sunlit gaps, edges, and stream corridors within forest, where aerial insects concentrate. Often uses midstory perches that provide good vantage points into open airspace between foliage.
