Tui

The Tui (Prosthemadera novaeseelandiae) is a passerine bird of New Zealand, one of the largest members of the diverse honeyeater family. The name Tui is from the Maori language and is the formal common name; the English common name Parson Bird is apparently falling into disuse but came about because at first glance the Tui appears completely black except for a small tuft of white feathers at its neck and a small white wing patch: it resembles a parson in religious attire. On closer inspection, it can be seen that Tui have faded browner patches on the back and flanks, a multicoloured iridescent sheen which varies with the angle that the light strikes them from, and a dusting of small, white-shafted feathers on the back of the neck that produce a lacy collar.

Tui are found though much of New Zealand, particularly the North Island, the west and south coasts of the South Island, Stewart Island and the Chatham Islands. Populations have declined considerably since European settement, mainly because of habitat destruction but also from hunting and imported mammalian predators. Nevertheless, the species is considered secure and has made recoveries in some areas, particularly after removal of livestock has allowed vegetation to recover. Predation by introduced species remains a threat, particularly stoats, the Common Myna (which competes with Tui for food and sometimes takes eggs) and rats.

Tui prefer broadleaf forests below 1500 metres but will tolerate quite small remnant patches, regrowth, exotic plantations and well-vegetated suburbs. They are usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, but will congregate in large numbers at suitable food sources, often in company with Silvereyes, Bellbirds, or New Zealand Pigeons. Nectar is the primary diet item; fruit and insects are frequently taken; pollen and seeds more occasionally.

Tui are considered to be very intelligent, much like parrots. They also resemble parrots in their ability to imitate human speech.

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