The emperor fairywren is a species of bird in the Australasian wren family, Maluridae. It is found in New Guinea in its natural habitat of subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests. It is the largest species of fairywren. It is highly sexually dimorphic. Males have a blue and black plumage, with the females having blue and black plumage only on their heads, with the rest of the body being coloured a rusty brown and having a black tail tipped with white. There are 3 recognized subspecies of the emperor fairywren, one from north and northwestern New Guinea, one from Biak Island, and one from south New Guinea and the Aru Islands.
Region
New Guinea and adjacent islands (Aru, Biak)
Typical Environment
Primarily inhabits subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests, including forest edges, riverine thickets, and dense secondary growth. It favors tangled understory and vine-laden scrub where it forages close to the ground. Occurs from the northern and southern New Guinea lowlands to offshore islands such as Biak and the Aru Islands. Often persists in lightly degraded habitats and regrowth, provided dense cover is available.
Altitude Range
0–800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The emperor fairywren is the largest member of the fairywren family, with a striking sexual dimorphism: males show vivid cobalt-blue and black, while females are mostly rufous-brown with blue and black confined to the head. It lives in small cooperative groups that defend territories year-round. Three subspecies occur across New Guinea and nearby islands, differing slightly in size and coloration. Despite its bold colors, it tends to remain low in dense vegetation and can be surprisingly hard to spot.
A painting of a male and female emperor fairywren.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and direct between cover
Social Behavior
Lives in small territorial groups with a breeding pair and helpers, typical of cooperative breeders. Nests are usually dome-shaped and placed low in dense shrubs or grasses. Pairs maintain territories year-round and engage in courtship displays with fanned tails and fluttering.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of high, tinkling trills and thin, sweet notes delivered from concealed perches. Calls include sharp scolds and soft chipping contact notes used to keep the group coordinated in dense cover.
