Azure-crested flycatcher facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Azure-crested flycatcher |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Myiagra
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| Species: |
azureocapilla
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The azure-crested flycatcher (Myiagra azureocapilla), also known as the blue-crested flycatcher, is a small, colorful bird. It belongs to the monarch flycatcher family. This bird lives only in Fiji, a group of islands in the Pacific Ocean. You can find it on the island of Taveuni. Its natural home is in moist lowland forests and mountain forests. Scientists consider it a "Near Threatened" species, meaning it needs protection.
What is the Azure-crested Flycatcher?
Scientists give every living thing a special name. This helps them organize and study nature. The azure-crested flycatcher was first described in 1875. A scientist named Edgar Leopold Layard gave it its scientific name. He was in charge of the government in Fiji at that time.
The bird's scientific name, azureocapilla, comes from Latin words. "Azureus" means 'blue', and "capillus" means 'of the head'. So, its name means "blue-headed". People also call it the blue-crested broadbill.
This bird is part of a group called monarch flycatchers. These birds are often found in Australia and tropical areas. They are not closely related to other birds called "Old World flycatchers". Scientists group them with crows, shrikes, and birds of paradise.
In 2016, scientists learned something new. Two types of azure-crested flycatchers were found to be different enough. They were then named a separate species. This new bird is called the chestnut-throated flycatcher.
How to Spot an Azure-crested Flycatcher
The azure-crested flycatcher is about 14 centimeters (5.5 inches) long. That's about the length of a pen. Male and female birds look different, which is called being sexually dimorphic.
The male bird has a light blue head. Its upper body is a slate-blue color. Its belly and chest are white.
The female bird is brown on her upper body. Her cheeks look a bit grey. Her head has a bluish tint.
One special thing about this bird is its bill. Most birds in the Myiagra group have black bills. But the azure-crested flycatcher has a bright orange bill!
Gallery
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Male in a threat-posture, Vidawa, Taveuni, Fiji Isles
