Papuan spinetail

The Papuan spinetail (Mearnsia novaeguineae), also known as the Papuan needletail, New Guinea spine-tailed swift or Papuan spine-tailed swift, is a small (11.5 cm in length), stocky swift with a short, rounded tail and very fast flight. Head and upperparts glossy blue-black, white or whitish belly and undertail coverts, dark underwing with pale central stripe. The small spines at the end of the tail are not visible in flight.

Distribution
Endemic to New Guinea where it is widespread in the lowlands and hills up to 550 m. It has been recorded from Boigu Island, Queensland, Australian territory in north-western Torres Strait.

Habitat
Forest edges, gardens and cleared areas with standing dead trees.

Food
Flying insects.

Breeding
Nests in a high tree hollows.

Conservation
Common and widespread species assessed as being of Least Concern.