Gray Gerygone

1. Tiny size (about 10 cm long) with olive-grey plumage and pale underparts.

2. Distinctive ruby-red eyes that stand out against its grey face.

3. Beautiful, wavering trill that rises and falls, often heard before the bird is seen.

Grey warblers build unique, hanging pear-shaped nests with a side entrance near the top. They breed from August to January, often raising two clutches. Interestingly, the shining bronze cuckoo often parasitizes their nests, laying its eggs for the warblers to raise. These tiny birds are remarkably adaptable, thriving in various habitats across New Zealand.

Look for grey warblers in both native and exotic forests, as well as scrub habitat and parks and gardens with good tree cover. They're typically found in the mid to high levels of the canopy, so scan the treetops. Dawn is an excellent time to spot them as they're most vocal then. Watch for their quick, hovering movements as they forage for insects among leaves. Tip: Listen for their distinctive song to locate them before trying to spot them visually.

The Grey warbler, or Riroriro, has long been part of New Zealand's ecosystem. In Māori culture, it's known as a Manu tohu tau, or weather prophet. Traditional knowledge suggests that the direction of the nest's entrance can indicate upcoming weather patterns.