Little Wattlebird

1. Streaked grey-brown plumage with a silvery cheek stripe

2. Lacks wattles; rufous wing patch visible in flight

3. Loud, varied calls and long, white-edged tail

These honeyeaters feed mainly on nectar, using their specialized brush-tipped tongues, but also eat insects, berries, and seeds. They are often seen alone or in groups, sometimes forming large flocks at abundant nectar sources. Little Wattlebirds are active and vocal, defending feeding territories with noisy displays. Breeding occurs mainly from August to December, though they may nest year-round if conditions allow. Females build a large cup-shaped nest from twigs and grass, usually placed up to 15 meters high in shrubs or trees. Clutch size is typically 1–3 eggs, which are incubated by the female alone for about 16 days. Both parents feed the chicks.

Little Wattlebirds are found along the coastal and sub-coastal regions of southeastern Australia, including Tasmania and Kangaroo Island. They thrive in banksia and eucalypt woodlands, heathlands, shrublands, and are also common in urban gardens and parks. Look for them in areas with dense flowering shrubs, where they often perch prominently and call loudly.