Story: Small forest birds

Snares Island tomtit

Snares Island tomtit

The tiny Snares Island tomtit is a member of the passerine (perching bird) order. Passerines have four toes – three pointing forward and one back. Tendons running down the back of each leg draw the claws into a curled position when the bird bends its leg, so they grip a twig or branch easily.

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Department of Conservation
Reference: 10054900
Photograph by Tui De Roy

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Courtesy of Roving Tortoise Worldwide Nature Photography

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How to cite this page:

Christina Troup, 'Small forest birds - New Zealand’s small forest birds', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/12455/snares-island-tomtit (accessed 26 April 2024)

Story by Christina Troup, published 24 Sep 2007, reviewed & revised 17 Feb 2015, updated 1 Aug 2023