The North Island saddleback (Philesturnus rufusatername) name comes from the prominent chestnut patch of plumage across the bird's back and wings, which strongly resembles a saddle. The Māori name, tīeke, is onomatopoeic and comes from one of the species' calls: "ti-e-ke-ke-ke-ke". A rare, glossy black New Zealand bird famous for its bright orange-red wattles, according to folklore, the demi-god Māui singed the bird's back with his fiery hand when it refused to bring him water, creating its distinct chestnut colour. The North Island saddleback features a thin buff or yellowish-gold line along the front edge of its chestnut-red saddle, whereas the South Island saddleback lacks this line completely. South Island birds are typically larger and heavier as an adaptation to colder climates. It belongs to the New Zealand wattlebird family (Callaeidae) which also includes the kōkako.
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