Australasian Figbird
Sphecotheres vieilloti
NativeStatus
CommonRarity
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Species Description
General Overview:
The Australasian Figbird is a medium-sized, highly social bird found along the eastern and northern coasts of Australia, as well as in southern New Guinea and the Kai Islands. It is commonly seen in groups around fruiting trees, especially figs, and is well adapted to both natural forests and urban environments
Fun Facts
Figbirds are capable mimics, sometimes copying the calls of other birds, including parrots and orioles.
1. Bare skin around the eyes: red in males, grey in females
2. Blackish bill (not red, unlike similar orioles)
3. Often seen in noisy, social flocks, especially around fruiting trees
Figbirds are primarily frugivorous, feeding on figs and other soft fruits, but they also eat insects and nectar. They are gregarious year-round, often forming flocks of 20 or more birds. During the breeding season (September to January), they nest in loose colonies, with cup-shaped nests built high in trees. Both parents share incubation and feeding duties. After breeding, flocks may join together at abundant food sources
Australasian Figbirds inhabit rainforests, wet eucalypt forests, woodlands, and are frequently found in urban parks and gardens with fruiting trees. They are most visible in the canopy, especially when feeding in groups. Early morning is a good time to observe them as they are actively foraging. Their loud, descending “chiew” call is a reliable way to detect their presence
Physical Attributes
Height
28 cm
Size Relative to Other Birds62%
Habitat
No habitat information available
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