Foods of insectivorous birds in forest of the Orongorongo Valley, Wellington, New Zealand

Abstract

Foods are described from analysis of faeces and castings of adult riflemen (Acanthisitta chloris), hedge sparrows (Prunella modularis), whiteheads (Mohoua albicilla), grey warblers (Gerygone igata), fantails (Rhipidura fuliginosa), and pied tits (Petroica macrocephala toitoi), and of nestling riflemen and pied tits, inhabiting indigenous forest in the North Island of New Zealand. Beetles, spiders, and caterpillars were important to all 6 species. Differences in diet are shown to be related to the birds' feeding habits. Information is given on the seasonal distribution and abundance of some invertebrate foods. Seasonal changes in diet were small, probably reflecting the rather equable oceanic climate of New Zealand, where invertebrates are available throughout the year. Fruits and other vegetable matter were shown to occur to a varying extent in the diet of all 6 species.