Coordinator: Tara Atkinson

Habitat and Distribution: Reasonable populations now only in Fiordland and Arthur's Pass national Park in South Island.

Characteristics: Usually seen in groups feeding in canopy. As it is confined to forest, mainly beech, the yellowhead is not easily confused with introduced Yellowhammer of the open country.

Voice: Loud trill and rattling call.

Food: Feed mainly in canopy on insects, their larvai and spiders. Also take fruits.

Breeding: Build nest similar to that of Whitehead but site it in a hole or cavity in tree. Often polygamous, and male does not appear to assist in incubating the 2-4 pinkish eggs with brown spots. Incubation period 20 or 21 days.

Captive Program:

Associated Documents: