Subdesert Mesite
Monias benschi
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<birdfyi-bird slug="monias-benschi"></birdfyi-bird>The Subdesert Mesite (Monias benschi) is a bird species in the family Mesitornithidae (mesites), within the order Mesitornithiformes (mesites). Recorded measurements include a wingspan of 24.8 cm and a weight of 139 g. The IUCN Red List classifies it as Vulnerable.
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About
Subdesert Mesite (Monias benschi) — 28–32 cm. Pale brown and buff above; white underparts with dark spotting on breast; long bill; long tail. Restricted to a narrow coastal strip of spiny desert in southwest Madagascar. Non-parasitic; nests in low shrubs. Omnivore; forages on bare sandy ground. Vulnerable; very restricted range.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 24.8 cm | 9.8 in |
| Weight | 139.0 g | 4.90 oz |
Identification
Plumage
Subdesert Mesite: pale buff-gray below; olive-brown above; bold white supercilium; long tail; Madagascar subdesert specialist
Conservation Status
Behavior & Breeding
Nesting
Nest type: PL. Fledging: 21-27 days.
Clutch Size
1-2
Sound
Song
Soft, brief trill with whistling quality; pure notes given quietly from Madagascar dry spiny forest.
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Mesitornithiformes (Mesites) |
| Family | Mesitornithidae (Mesites) |
| Genus | Monias |
| Species | Monias benschi |
Distribution
Subdesert Mesite has been recorded in 1 countries.
countries highlighted
External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Subdesert Mesite endangered?
How does the Subdesert Mesite nest?
What does the Subdesert Mesite sound like?
How big is the Subdesert Mesite?
What order and family does the Subdesert Mesite belong to?
Similar Birds
Other species in the Mesitornithidae family