Ogea monarch

The Ogea monarch or versicolored monarch is a species of bird in the family Monarchidae. It is endemic to two islands, Ogea Driki and Ogea Levu, in the Lau Group of south eastern Fiji.

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Distribution

Region

South Pacific (Fiji – Lau Group)

Typical Environment

Occurs only on the coral-limestone islands of Ogea Driki and Ogea Levu. It inhabits native lowland forest, dense thickets, and secondary growth, often near forest edges and clearings. The species forages in the lower to mid canopy, using perches within tangled vegetation. It tolerates some disturbance but depends on maintaining sufficient forest cover.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 100 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size12–14 cm

Wing Span18–22 cm

Male Weight0.015 kg

Female Weight0.014 kg

Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The Ogea monarch, also called the versicolored monarch, is confined to the two tiny Ogea islands in Fiji’s Lau Group. Its very small range makes it sensitive to habitat change and invasive predators. It forages actively for insects, helping control forest arthropods. The name “versicolored” refers to subtle variation in its grey and buff tones across individuals.

Behaviour

Temperament

solitary and territorial

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats between perches; agile sallying flights

Social Behavior

Typically encountered in pairs defending small territories. Builds a neat cup nest suspended in a fork or on a horizontal branch, using plant fibers, rootlets, and spider silk. Both parents likely share nesting duties and care for the young.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Song consists of thin, high-pitched whistles and short, repeated phrases delivered from mid-level perches. Calls include sharp chips used during foraging and soft contact notes between pair members.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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