The tomtit is a small passerine bird in the family Petroicidae, the Australasian robins. It is endemic to the islands of New Zealand, ranging across the main islands as well as several of the outlying islands. In the Māori language, the North Island tomtit is known as miromiro and the South Island tomtit is known as ngirungiru. This bird has several other Māori and English names as well. There are several subspecies showing considerable variation in plumage and size. The species is not threatened and has adapted to the changes made to New Zealand's biodiversity.
Region
New Zealand and Subantarctic Islands
Typical Environment
The tomtit inhabits native podocarp–broadleaf and beech forests, as well as regenerating scrub and forest fragments. It also uses exotic plantations and sheltered coastal forest, particularly where understory is dense. On predator-managed or predator-free offshore islands it can be locally abundant. It forages from ground level through the mid-canopy, often along forest edges, tracks, and clearings.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1400 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Known in Māori as miromiro (North Island) and ngirungiru (South Island), the tomtit has several insular subspecies with noticeable plumage differences. It often approaches quietly to investigate human activity and readily responds to pishing. Although adaptable to modified forests, it remains vulnerable to introduced mammalian predators. Its quick, hawking forays help control forest insect populations.
Female tomtits have a browner plumage than the males
Illustration of South Island tomtit nests (1888)
Temperament
alert and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs holding small territories. The cup nest is placed on ledges, forks, or vines and is built from moss, rootlets, and spider silk; both parents feed the young. Pairs may attempt multiple broods in a season where conditions allow.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A bright, high-pitched, tinkling series of notes delivered from a perch, with soft phrases repeated in short bursts. Contact calls include sharp, metallic tick notes that carry through the understory.
