Papuan spine-tailed swift
# Papuan spine-tailed swift

The Papuan spine-tailed swift (Mearnsia novaeguineae), also known as the Papuan needletail, New Guinea spine-tailed swift or Papua spinetail, 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.

