Pollen's Vanga (Xenopirostris polleni)

Pollen's vanga can generally be found in pairs or mixed-species flocks, foraging for insects such a caterpillars and crickets in the middle and upper levels of the rainforest (2) (4). This species' long powerful beak enables it to probe amongst leaves and crevices in tree bark, and to tear off moss and dead wood from branches as it searches for prey (3) (4) (5). Pollen's vanga nests between September and December, with breeding pairs constructing a deep, cup-shaped nest from plant material, anchoring it to a tree branch with long plant fibres. A clutch of two eggs is usually laid, with both sexes participating in incubation and subsequently, the brooding and feeding of the chicks. During this time, the male actively defends the nest, chasing away other Pollen's vangas that come near (6).

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