Listen to the Grey Warbler
Recording by craig wilson · xeno-canto XC1063601
Grey Warbler
Māori name: Riroriro
Scientific name: Gerygone igata
Not Threatened
The grey warbler is New Zealand's most widespread native bird, found in forests, scrub, and gardens across the country. Despite its small size and modest appearance, the riroriro has a surprisingly loud, trilling song that fills the bush year-round. It is the primary host of the shining cuckoo, which lays its eggs in the warbler's domed nest.
Did you know?
The grey warbler's song is one of the first signs of spring in New Zealand. Māori used its call as a seasonal indicator — when the riroriro sang, it was time to begin planting kūmara.
Threats
Rats and stoats predate nests heavily. Because they breed year-round, grey warblers are exposed to predation pressure across every season.