White-breasted Mesite

Overview

The white-breasted mesite (Mesitornis variegatus) is a medium-sized, ground-dwelling bird endemic to Madagascar. Classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN, it has a small population restricted to specific forest sites on the island.

Identification

• Medium-sized and rail-like in appearance.
• Features a white face with a white supercilium and dark malar stripes, paired with a short, dark, straight bill.
• Upperparts are rufous brown, while the underside is white with a tawny chest band and a barred belly.
• Possesses short, rounded wings and emits a melodic song, particularly in early morning and during the day.

Habitat

This species inhabits undisturbed deciduous forests and lives in groups of two to four individuals. Its range is restricted to five sites in the north and west of Madagascar, including Analamerana Reserve, Ankarafantsika National Park, Ankarana Special Reserve, Daraina forests, and Menabe forest, as well as one site in the east, Ambatovaky Reserve.

Diet

The bird forages on the forest floor by flicking over leaf-litter to find invertebrates such as beetles, centipedes, cockroaches, crickets, flies, moths, and spiders. Its diet also includes seeds.

Did you know?

Despite its short and rounded wings, the white-breasted mesite is capable of flying only a few metres when pursued, relying heavily on its brown plumage for camouflage while on the ground.