Anthochaera chrysoptera
Least Concern
With its melodious and sometimes grating calls, the Little Wattlebird is a lively fixture in the diverse habitats of eastern and southeastern Australia, including Tasmania. Though it lacks the prominent wattles of its larger relatives, this adaptable member of the honeyeater family makes up for it with a subtle charm, sporting a dusky brown plumage that blends seamlessly into the coastal heaths and urban gardens it frequents. As it darts from flower to flower, the Little Wattlebird's ceaseless search for nectar and insects is a testament to its role as a vital pollinator in the Australian ecosystem.
Males and females have similar plumage
Brown
Grey, White
Brown
Curved
Black
Dark Grey
Reddish patches on the shoulders
Long with a rounded tip
27cm to 35cm
Length
28cm to 32cm
Wingspan
44g to 85g
Weight
Click on an image below to see the full-size version
Harsh 'yaars' or 'chow-chow'
A varied repertoire of raspy calls and melodic sounds
Gruff, scolding calls
Active throughout the day, foraging and defending territories
Often seen alone or in pairs; can be aggressive towards other birds
Defends feeding territories vigorously
Sedentary with some local movements
Aggressive, particularly towards smaller honeyeaters
Nectar, Insects, Berries
Forages in shrubs and trees, probing flowers for nectar
Dawn and dusk are peak feeding times
Gleaning from foliage and flowers
Diet varies based on flower availability
Relies heavily on nectar
In dense shrubs or trees
Loose, bowl-shaped nest made of twigs and grass
August to December
Up to three a year
Pale brown with darker spots
22 mm x 16 mm
2 to 3 eggs per clutch
16 - 20 days
14 - 16 days
Both parents feed the chicks
Eastern and southeastern Australia, including Tasmania
Woodlands, forests, coastal heaths, and urban gardens
From sea level to mountainous regions
Sedentary with some local movements
Temperate Forests, Shrubland, Urban
Temperate
Please note, this range and distribution map is a high-level overview, and doesn't break down into specific regions and areas of the countries.
Resident or Present
7 year(s)
May breed in colonies
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)
Habitat loss and fragmentation
Habitat preservation and restoration efforts
Other names:
Brush Wattlebird
Family:
MeliphagidaePopulation size:
Not precisely known
Population trend:
Conservation status:
Least Concern
IUCN Red List
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