The Pohnpei fantail is a fantail, known as the Likepsir in Pohnpeian, which is endemic to the Pacific island of Pohnpei in the Federated States of Micronesia. It is a bird commonly found in forests and at forest edges. It feeds on insects which it gathers by gleaning amongst foliage or by making short dashes while in the air.
Region
Micronesia
Typical Environment
Endemic to the island of Pohnpei, it occupies primary rainforest, secondary forest, and forest edges, including agroforests and overgrown gardens. It forages from understory to mid-canopy along trails, streams, and edges where insect activity is high. The species tolerates some habitat disturbance but relies on areas with continuous tree cover. Mangrove margins and mixed native vegetation are also used where available.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 700 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Pohnpei fantail, called Likepsir in Pohnpeian, is confined to the island of Pohnpei in the Federated States of Micronesia. It constantly fans its tail while foraging, making quick sallies to snatch insects from foliage and the air. It adapts well to forest edges and secondary growth, which helps it persist in human-altered landscapes. Named for the naturalist Jan Kubary, it is one of Pohnpei’s characteristic forest birds.
Temperament
active and inquisitive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent short sallies
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, maintaining small territories in suitable forest. During breeding, pairs build a small cup nest suspended in a fork or on a horizontal branch. Both adults likely assist with incubation and feeding of young. Outside breeding, it may join mixed-species flocks along forest edges.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A bright series of thin whistles and twitters, interspersed with rapid scolding notes when disturbed. The song is repetitive but variable, delivered from exposed perches within the understory to mid-canopy.
Plumage
Compact fantail with soft, brownish-olive upperparts and paler gray-buff underparts; throat often paler with subtle streaking. Tail is broad and frequently fanned, with contrasting pale edges. Wings show slightly warmer brown tones.
Diet
Primarily small insects and other arthropods, taken by gleaning from leaves and branches and by brief aerial sallies. It hawks for flying insects along edges and gaps where prey is abundant. Occasional small spiders and larvae are also consumed. It typically forages methodically through a beat, fanning its tail and flicking wings to flush prey.
Preferred Environment
Forest edges, light gaps, and along streams or trails within rainforest and secondary woodland. It forages in the understory to mid-levels, often near foliage-rich tangles and saplings.
