The dark newtonia is a species of bird in the family Vangidae. It is endemic to northeastern Madagascar. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
Region
Madagascar
Typical Environment
Found in humid evergreen forests of northeastern Madagascar, especially lowland and foothill rainforests. It uses dense understory, forest edges, riverine strips, and selectively logged forest where structural complexity remains. The species generally avoids open farmland and heavily degraded scrub. It occurs in several protected areas, including the Masoala–Makira landscape.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1400 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small member of the Malagasy vanga radiation, the dark newtonia is a foliage-gleaning insect-hunter of humid forests. It often joins mixed-species flocks and moves quickly through the understory. Although it tolerates some secondary growth, ongoing deforestation in northeastern Madagascar remains a concern for its habitat.
Temperament
secretive but active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Often seen singly or in pairs, and frequently associates with mixed-species flocks moving through the understory and lower canopy. Pairs defend small territories during breeding. The nest is a small cup placed low to mid-level in dense vegetation.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of thin, high-pitched notes and short trills delivered from concealed perches. Calls are soft, sibilant tseet or tsip notes used to keep contact within pairs or flocks.
