Sphecotheres vieilloti
The Australasian Figbird, *Sphecotheres vieilloti*, is a strikingly sexually dimorphic passerine belonging to the Old World Oriole family (Oriolidae). Males are instantly recognizable by their vibrant olive-green body, black head, and distinctive bare, bright red skin patch around the eye, often referred to as the 'loorie'. They measure approximately 27-29 cm in length and weigh around 90-130 grams. Females, in contrast, are duller, with a greyish-brown head, streaked white underparts, and gr...
Primarily inhabits rainforest edges, open woodlands, riverine forests, mangroves, and increasingly, urban parks and gardens. Typically found at low to moderate elevations.
Exclusively frugivorous, with a strong preference for ripe figs, but also consumes a variety of other soft native and introduced fruits. They occasionally supplement their diet with insects, particularly during breeding season to provide protein for their young.
Australasian Figbirds are highly social and diurnal, often foraging in noisy flocks, particularly outside the breeding season, and gathering in communal roosts at dusk. Their foraging strategy is predominantly arboreal, moving agilely through tree canopies to pluck ripe fruits, sometimes hanging ...
The Australasian Figbird has a widespread resident distribution across northern and eastern Australia, New Guinea, and the Aru Islands. In Australia, it ranges from the Kimberley region of Western Australia, across the Top End of the Northern Territory, throughout Queensland, and down the eastern...
Least Concern
- The male Australasian Figbird's bare red facial skin is a key identifier and intensifies in color during the breeding season. - They are one of the most specialized fruit-eating birds in their range, with figs forming a significant portion of their diet. - Despite their seemingly flimsy, cup-sh...