The Fiji woodswallow is a species of woodswallow in the family Artamidae. It is endemic to most of the islands of Fiji, although it is absent from Kadavu Archipelago and the Lau Archipelago. The species was once considered a race of the white-breasted woodswallow, which breeds from Australia, New Caledonia and Vanuatu through to Borneo and the Philippines. Some authors retain it in that species.
Region
Fiji Islands
Typical Environment
Endemic to most of Fiji’s larger and smaller islands, though absent from the Kadavu and Lau archipelagos. It occupies open woodland, forest edges, coconut groves, farmland, coastal scrub, and urban parks and gardens. The species favors areas with scattered trees or tall perches that allow aerial sallies for insects. It adapts well to human-modified landscapes, often perching on power lines and buildings. Nesting typically occurs in trees in open or semi-open settings.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Fiji woodswallow is a highly social bird that often roosts in tight huddles, which helps conserve warmth and strengthen group bonds. It frequently occurs around villages and plantations and readily uses perches like wires and fence posts for hawking insects. The species shows cooperative breeding, with helpers assisting the breeding pair. It was formerly treated as part of the white-breasted woodswallow complex.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile sallies
Social Behavior
Occurs in small groups that defend territories and frequently huddle together when roosting. Cooperative breeding is common, with non-breeding helpers feeding chicks and aiding in nest defense. Nests are shallow stick structures placed on branches or in tree forks.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are a lively mix of twitters, soft chatters, and mellow whistles used for contact within the group. Vocalizations are frequent during foraging and when groups reunite at roosts.
