Bernieridae

Bernieridae is a family of Old World passerine birds. They are small to medium-sized birds, typically drab in coloration, with a preference for dense vegetation in their habitats. The family is endemic to Madagascar and its surrounding islands, including the Comoros and Seychelles.

This family comprises several genera, each with distinct species adapted to various ecological niches. Members of Bernieridae are generally insectivorous, foraging for insects and other small invertebrates among leaves and branches. Their songs are often described as complex and varied, playing a role in territorial defense and mate attraction.

Recent taxonomic revisions have placed Bernieridae as a distinct family, previously being grouped with other passerine families. This reclassification is based on genetic and morphological evidence. The family is considered monotypic, meaning it contains only the single family Bernieridae.

Species within Bernieridae exhibit adaptations related to their specific environments. For instance, some species found in forests have specialized beak shapes for probing bark, while those in more open habitats may have adaptations for aerial insectivory. Conservation concerns exist for several species within the family due to habitat loss and fragmentation, particularly in Madagascar's native forests.