White-capped Monarch

Overview

The White-capped monarch, also known as Richards' monarch, is a species of bird in the family Monarchidae. It is endemic to the Western Province in the Solomon Islands and is currently classified as Near Threatened.

Identification

• Medium-sized bird with a glossy black back and darker black around the throat and face.
• Features a tawny belly.
• Prominent white cap extends from the nape to above the forehead, forming an eye-ring and ending in a half-collar.
• Juveniles resemble adults but possess less white on the face.

Habitat

Found in the Western Province of the Solomon Islands on the islands of New Georgia, Rendova, Kolombangara, Vella Lavella, Ranongga, Tetepare, Gizo, Vangunu, and Arundel Island, as well as some smaller islands. The species faces significant threats from rapidly expanding deforestation across these major islands.

Did you know?

Specimen mounts provided evidence that the strong plumage, particularly the white cap of males, may serve as a social signal.