New Britain Friarbird
NameNew Britain Friarbird
Common NameNew Britain Friarbird
Scientific NamePhilemon cockerelli
FamilyMeliphagidae
Wingspan (cm)40
Length (cm)32
Weight (g)125
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are dull olive-brown, contrasting with paler greyish-brown underparts. The head is darker, appearing greyish-black, with extensive bare, dark grey to black skin around the eyes and lores. The strong, slightly downcurved bill is black, often featuring a noticeable knob at its base.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its loud, raucous, and often harsh vocalizations, typical of friarbirds. Calls include a series of 'chok-chok-chok' or 'wok-wok-wok' notes, sometimes with a ringing quality.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the islands of New Britain and New Ireland, which are part of Papua New Guinea.
Identifying FeaturesBare dark facial skin, Prominent knob on bill, Dull olive-brown and greyish plumage, Large size for a honeyeater, Loud, raucous calls
Description
The New Britain Friarbird is a medium-sized honeyeater characterized by its dull olive-brown plumage and distinctive bare, dark facial skin. It possesses a strong, slightly downcurved black bill, often with a prominent knob at the base of the upper mandible. This species is typically found actively foraging in the canopy of forests.
