The White-capped monarch, or Richards' monarch, is a species of bird in the family Monarchidae. It is endemic to the Western Province in the Solomon Islands.
Region
Southwest Pacific (Solomon Islands)
Typical Environment
Occurs on forested islands in the Western Province, using primary lowland rainforest as well as well-developed secondary forest. It favors interior and edge habitats with a layered canopy and abundant perches from which to sally for insects. Birds are seen along rivers, in coastal forest, and sometimes in shaded plantations or village groves if tall native trees remain. It typically keeps to midstory and subcanopy strata, moving methodically through shaded foliage.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as Richards' monarch, this flycatcher is confined to islands of the Western Province of the Solomon Islands. It is a canopy and midstory insect hunter that often makes short sallies from perches. The striking white crown that gives the species its name contrasts with otherwise dark plumage, making it one of the more distinctive monarchs in its range.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick sallies
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, maintaining territories year-round. Pairs build a small cup nest suspended in a fork or on a horizontal branch, often over shaded gullies. They may join mixed-species flocks briefly while foraging but generally remain discreet and quiet.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, thin whistles interspersed with sharp chips. Calls are given from mid-canopy perches and can be surprisingly soft, carrying best in quiet forest conditions.
