The torrent flyrobin is a species of passerine bird in the Australasian robin family Petroicidae. It is also known as the torrent robin.
Region
New Guinea and nearby satellite islands
Typical Environment
Occurs along clear, fast-flowing rivers and boulder-strewn streams in lowland foothills to mid-montane zones across New Guinea (Indonesia’s Papua region and Papua New Guinea) and some adjacent islands. It favors rocky channels with exposed perches, rapids, and plunge pools. Forested river corridors, secondary growth along streams, and mossy boulder fields are commonly used. It is generally absent from sluggish lowland waterways and open wetlands.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The torrent flyrobin, also called the torrent robin, is a specialist of fast-flowing mountain streams in New Guinea. It often perches on rocks in mid-stream, sallying out to snatch insects above the water. Its reliance on clear, rocky torrents makes it a good indicator of healthy upland waterways.
Temperament
active and alert, strongly tied to fast-water habitats
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, darting sallies over water
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs defending linear stretches of stream. Nests are typically placed close to water on ledges, banks, or sheltered niches above torrents. Pairs maintain territories year-round and may reuse favored perches on boulders.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a thin, high series of whistles and trills that can carry over the noise of rushing water. Calls include sharp ticks and seep notes given during short aerial sallies and territorial interactions.
Plumage
Compact robin with smooth, close-fitting plumage suited to wet habitats; male typically contrasting dark above and pale below with a crisp wing pattern, female duller and browner overall. Tail and wings appear neat and rounded, often showing a bold wing bar when in flight.
Diet
Primarily takes aquatic and aerial insects such as mayflies, caddisflies, midges, and small beetles. It hawks insects in quick flights from streamside rocks and occasionally gleans from wet boulders and low overhanging vegetation. Prey is captured close to the water surface or just above rapids.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along clear, rocky streams with abundant exposed stones and driftwood perches. Edges of forested torrents and shaded rapids are preferred for both foraging and resting.
