Rifleman

The Rifleman (<em>Acanthisitta chloris</em>) is a tiny passerine and one of the only surviving members of the ancient family Acanthisittidae (New Zealand Wrens), representing a lineage isolated on New Zealand since the Cretaceous. Detailed plumage and behavioral descriptions of this species are limited in the available literature. It typically inhabits coastal zones and forested areas of New Zealand. The Rifleman builds a domed nest (DM type); clutch size ranges from 2 to 5 eggs, with incubation lasting 19–21 days and fledging at 21–27 days. The species is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. Research indicates the Rifleman is notable for its pronounced sexual dimorphism, with males and females differing strikingly in coloration.