Common newtonia

Overview

Wikipedia

The common newtonia is a species of bird in the family Vangidae. It is endemic to Madagascar.

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Distribution

Region

Madagascar

Typical Environment

Occurs widely across Madagascar in humid evergreen forests of the east, dry deciduous forests of the west, and mosaics of secondary growth. It tolerates forest edges, degraded thickets, plantations, and wooded gardens. Birds forage from the understory to mid-canopy, often gleaning along branches and leaves. The species is frequently encountered in mixed-species foraging parties.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 2000 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size11–13 cm

Wing Span18–20 cm

Male Weight0.011 kg

Female Weight0.01 kg

Life Expectancy5 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The common newtonia is a small vanga endemic to Madagascar, often joining mixed-species flocks while foraging. Its pale iris gives it a distinctive, alert look among the island’s forest birds. It adapts well to both primary and secondary growth, making it one of Madagascar’s more frequently encountered small insectivores.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

active and confiding

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats between perches

Social Behavior

Typically found in pairs or small family groups and commonly joins mixed-species flocks. Nests are small cup structures placed low to mid-level in shrubs or trees. Both parents participate in feeding the young.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A series of high, thin sibilant notes and short trills, often delivered from low perches. Contact calls are soft ‘tik’ or ‘tsee’ notes repeated at intervals.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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