New Caledonian Friarbird
NameNew Caledonian Friarbird
Common NameNew Caledonian Friarbird
Scientific NamePhilemon diemenensis
FamilyMeliphagidae
Wingspan (cm)33
Length (cm)34
Weight (g)120
Plumage DetailsOverall dull brown plumage, with a paler, streaked throat and chest. The back and wings are a darker brown, often with white streaking on the wing coverts. It has a bare, dark patch of skin around the eye and a long, strongly decurved black bill.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its loud, often harsh and raucous calls, which can be quite varied and include chattering, squawking, and whistling notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the islands of New Caledonia, including Grande Terre and the Loyalty Islands.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size for a honeyeater, Dull brown plumage, Long, decurved black bill, Bare dark skin around the eye, White streaking on wing coverts and throat
Description
The New Caledonian Friarbird is a large, robust honeyeater endemic to New Caledonia. It is characterized by its brownish plumage, long decurved bill, and a distinctive bare patch of skin around the eye. This active bird forages in the canopy, feeding on nectar, insects, and fruits.
