Nuthatch Vanga (Hypositta corallirostris) [XC762785]
by Daniel Lane from Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, Toamasina, Madagascar (call)
Nuthatch Vanga (Hypositta corallirostris) [XC622533]
by Ken Behrens from Antsirabe, Sambava, Antsiranana Province, Madagascar (uncertain)
Subspecies
No subspecies.
Has in the past sometimes been placed in a separate, monotypic family, Hyposittidae, or in tit family (Paridae), but certain morphological and anatomical features indicate that inclusion in present family more appropriate. Two juvenile specimens found in 1996 in museum drawer in Germany, and originating from primary forest near Eminiminy (north of Tolanaro), in south-eastern Madagascar, are plain olive-brown with blackish forehead, and similar to present species in size and loose plumage structure, but with much longer tarsus and significantly shorter toes. Described as a new species, Short-toed Nuthatch Vanga (Hypositta perdita), but could be aberrant examples of present species or some other species, although no further individuals seen and impossible to assess whether they do represent a valid taxon (different species, or subspecies).
BirdLife International Species Factsheet