The New Guinea thornbill or Papuan thornbill is a species of bird in the family Acanthizidae. It is found in the New Guinea Highlands.
Region
New Guinea Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs across the central cordillera of New Guinea in both Papua New Guinea and the Indonesian provinces of Papua and Highland Papua. Prefers mossy montane forest, forest edges, and secondary growth with dense shrub layers. It also occupies subalpine thickets near treeline and regenerating landslides where low, tangled vegetation is abundant. Often local but can be one of the common small insectivores where habitat is intact.
Altitude Range
1200–3500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also known as the Papuan thornbill, this small acanthizid is confined to the New Guinea Highlands. It forages restlessly in shrubs and low canopy, often joining mixed-species flocks with scrubwrens and gerygones. Its plumage is subdued, making behavior and voice useful for identification. The species is currently not considered at risk and is fairly common within suitable montane habitats.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, frequently joining mixed-species foraging parties. Nests are domed or enclosed structures placed low in dense shrubs or tangles. Breeding pairs are territorial during the nesting period but tolerate neighbors at foraging sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High, thin trills and tinkling phrases delivered in short series, often while foraging. Calls include soft tsip and tsee notes that keep contact within the group. Vocalizations are modest in volume but persistent.
