Madanga facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Madanga |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Anthus
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| Species: |
ruficollis
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| Synonyms | |
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Madanga ruficollis |
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The madanga or rufous-throated white-eye (Anthus ruficollis) is a small bird. It used to be grouped with birds called white-eyes, but now scientists think it's actually a type of pipit or wagtail. Its closest relatives are the tree pipits. This special bird is endemic to the island of Buru in Indonesia. This means it's only found there and nowhere else in the world! It lives in the wet, mountainous forests in warm, tropical areas.
Scientists first learned about this bird from four birds they found in April 1922. They were found in the western part of Buru, high up in the mountains, between 820 and 1500 meters (about 2,700 to 4,900 feet) above sea level. They saw two more birds in December 1995, even higher up at 1460 meters (about 4,800 feet). Sadly, they also noticed that the bird's home was changing.
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About the Madanga
The madanga has only been seen in a few places. So, we don't know exactly how many there are or how much space they need. Scientists think there are probably a few hundred of them. Their home covers a few hundred square kilometers, high up in the mountains. These birds usually spread out in their habitat instead of staying in big groups.
Because this bird only lives on one island, and its home is threatened by logging and other human activities, it is listed as endangered. The IUCN has listed it as endangered since 1996. This means it's at a very high risk of disappearing forever.
What Does the Madanga Eat?
The madanga most likely eats small invertebrates. These are tiny creatures like insects or spiders. It finds them by looking on tree bark and lichen (a type of moss-like growth on trees).
Unique Features
The madanga has some special features that make it stand out. It doesn't have the white ring around its eye that many other "white-eye" birds have. It also has longer toes, wings, and tail. The feathers at the end of its tail, called rectrices, have a pointed shape.
How Scientists Study the Madanga
In 2015, scientists did a special DNA test on the madanga. This test showed that the madanga is more closely related to the pipits than to the white-eyes. Because of this, many experts now consider it a member of the Motacillidae family, which includes pipits and wagtails.
