The Madagascar blue vanga is a bird species in the family Vangidae. It is found in Madagascar, where its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry forest and subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest.
Region
Madagascar
Typical Environment
Occurs broadly in eastern moist lowland forests and also in patches of western dry deciduous forest. It uses primary forest but readily forages along edges, in secondary growth, and in tall woodland. The species typically works the mid-story to canopy, probing and gleaning among foliage and branches. It can be found in gallery forests along rivers and occasionally in semi-degraded habitats if large trees remain.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A striking member of Madagascar’s unique vanga radiation, the Madagascar blue vanga is instantly recognized by its vivid blue upperparts and contrasting white underparts. It often travels with mixed-species flocks, helping it find hidden insects high in the canopy. Its clear, fluty whistles carry through lowland forests. Despite habitat pressures in parts of its range, it remains relatively common in suitable forest.
Adult male blue vanga.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups and frequently joins mixed-species flocks. Breeding pairs build a neat cup nest placed on a horizontal branch in the mid-canopy. Both sexes participate in incubation and feeding of the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, flute-like whistles delivered in short phrases, often from the canopy. Contact calls include sharp chips and soft chatter while foraging.
