The Kai monarch, or white-tailed monarch, is a species of bird in the family Monarchidae. It is endemic to the Kai Islands. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Maluku Islands (Kai Islands), Wallacea
Typical Environment
Restricted to the Kai archipelago where it occupies primary and mature secondary lowland rainforest, forest edges, and well-wooded gullies. It forages mainly in the midstory and lower canopy, often near edges with dense foliage. The species tolerates some secondary growth but is scarce in heavily degraded or open habitats. Its tiny range makes it highly sensitive to ongoing habitat loss.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Kai monarch, also called the white-tailed monarch, is a small insectivorous flycatcher found only on Indonesia’s Kai Islands. It favors intact lowland rainforest where it forages in the midstory and canopy by sallying and gleaning. Pairs defend territories and may join mixed-species flocks. Ongoing forest loss and degradation on the islands threaten its limited habitat.
Temperament
alert and moderately shy
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile sallies
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, maintaining small territories within forest. Likely monogamous with a cup-shaped nest placed on a horizontal fork or thin branch. Frequently joins mixed-species foraging flocks in suitable habitat.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of thin, high-pitched whistles and sharp chips delivered from midstory perches. Calls include quick scolding notes when disturbed.
