The Rennell gerygone is a species of bird in the family Acanthizidae. It lives on Rennell Island. It was formerly considered a subspecies of the fan-tailed gerygone, but was split as a distinct species by the International Ornithologists' Union in 2021.
Region
Solomon Islands
Typical Environment
Restricted to Rennell Island, a raised coral atoll with extensive lowland rainforest and karst-limestone terrain. It inhabits tropical moist lowland forest, forest edges, and second growth, and may venture into gardens and coconut groves adjacent to woodland. The species forages from understory to mid-canopy, especially along edges and gaps where insect activity is high. It is generally absent from completely open habitats lacking tree cover.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Endemic to Rennell Island in the Solomon Islands, this small Australasian warbler was long treated as a subspecies of the fan-tailed gerygone before being elevated to species by the IOC in 2021. It often flicks and fans its tail while foraging, revealing contrasting tail corners. Like other gerygones, it builds a neat, domed, pendant nest suspended from foliage. Its presence across both primary and secondary forest suggests some tolerance of habitat modification.
Temperament
active and inquisitive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent hops through foliage
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups; may join mixed-species flocks while foraging. Builds a domed, hanging nest suspended from a branch or vine. Both parents participate in incubation and feeding of nestlings.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, high-pitched series of sweet tinkling notes, delivered in brief phrases. Calls include thin tsip contact notes while moving through vegetation.
