The New Zealand bellbird (Anthornis melanura), known in Māori as korimako, is a small passerine bird endemic to New Zealand. It belongs to the family Meliphagidae, which comprises the honeyeaters.
Taxonomy
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves
- Order: Passeriformes
- Family: Meliphagidae
- Genus: Anthornis
- Species: A. melanura
Physical description
Adults are approximately 13–15 cm in length and weigh 12–16 g. Males are predominantly glossy black with a small white patch on the throat, while females are olive‑brown with a more muted plumage. Both sexes have a curved, slightly upturned bill adapted for nectar feeding. The species gets its common name from its clear, bell‑like song, which can be heard throughout the breeding season.
Distribution and habitat
The New Zealand bellbird occurs throughout the main islands of New Zealand, including both the North and South Islands, as well as several offshore islands. It inhabits a range of native forest types—mainly lowland and sub‑montane broadleaf and podocarp forests, as well as scrub, coastal forest, and urban gardens where suitable flowering plants are present. The bird is highly adaptable and has expanded into areas of secondary growth and cultivated landscapes.
Behaviour and ecology
Diet – The bellbird is primarily nectarivorous, feeding on the nectar of native plants such as kāmahi (Weinmannia racemosa), rātā (Metrosideros spp.), and tāwheowheo (Dracophyllum spp.). It also consumes insects, spiders, and fruit, especially during periods when floral resources are scarce.
Breeding – Breeding occurs from August to February, with peak activity in September–November. The species is monogamous; pairs defend territories that may contain several nest sites. Nests are cup‑shaped structures built from moss, spider silk, and plant fibers, usually positioned in tree forks or on horizontal branches 2–10 m above ground. Clutch size is typically two to three eggs, which are pale pink with brown speckles. Both parents share incubation duties (approximately 15 days) and chick‑rearing (about 12 days to fledging).
Vocalisations – The bellbird’s song is a series of clear, resonant notes often described as “pee‑wee‑wee‑wee” or “bell‑like” tones. Males sing from exposed perches to establish and defend territories. Calls are softer, consisting of thin whistles used for contact between mates and fledglings.
Conservation status
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies the New Zealand bellbird as “Least Concern” due to its wide distribution and stable population trends. Historical declines in the 19th and early 20th centuries—linked to habitat loss and predation by introduced mammals—have been offset by the species’ adaptability to altered habitats and the proliferation of introduced flowering plants.
Cultural significance
In Māori tradition, the korimako is celebrated for its melodious song and is featured in folklore and waiata (songs). Its presence is often associated with the health of native forests. The bird also holds a place in New Zealand’s natural heritage and is a common subject in birdwatching guides and educational materials.
References
- BirdLife International. (2023). Anthornis melanura. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2023.
- Davies, A., McGlone, M., & Tennyson, A. (2010). The Birds of New Zealand. Penguin Books.
- McCaw, G. (2004). The illustrated encyclopedia of New Zealand birds. New Zealand Birds Ltd.
