The white-backed woodswallow or Bismarck woodswallow, is a species of bird in the family Artamidae. It is endemic as its name suggests, to the Bismarck Archipelago.
Region
Bismarck Archipelago
Typical Environment
The white-backed woodswallow occupies open woodlands, forest edges, coastal scrub, plantations (including coconut and cocoa), and village clearings across the Bismarck Archipelago. It favors areas with scattered trees and perches overlooking open spaces for aerial foraging. Mangrove margins, river corridors, and secondary growth are also used. It is typically absent from dense interior rainforest. Local movements may occur following food availability and weather.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This aerial insect hunter often perches conspicuously before sallying out to catch flying insects. Like other woodswallows, it roosts communally, huddling tightly together for warmth and protection. It thrives in open habitats and edges, including gardens and plantations, where it helps control insect populations. Its bold white back is a distinctive field mark visible even at a distance.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile aerial sallies
Social Behavior
Often seen in small flocks or family groups that forage together and roost communally, huddling closely on branches. Pairs are monogamous during the breeding season and may receive help from previous offspring. Nests are shallow cups placed on exposed branches or forks.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls include soft chattering, twittering notes, and nasal squeaks given during social interactions and in flight. Song is a brief sequence of melodious twitters interspersed with harsher contact calls.
