Foulehaio carunculatus
The Polynesian Wattled Honeyeater, *Foulehaio carunculatus*, is a medium-sized passerine, typically measuring 18-22 cm (7-8.7 inches) in length and weighing between 25-45 grams. Its plumage is generally olive-green on the upperparts, with a slightly paler, yellowish-olive wash on the underparts, and darker wings and tail. The most distinctive field mark and source of its common name is the prominent, fleshy wattle located behind the eye, which varies dramatically in color among its several su...
This adaptable species inhabits a wide range of environments from dense primary rainforests and coastal scrub to secondary growth, mangroves, cultivated gardens, and even urban parks, found from sea level up to elevations of 1200 meters.
Primarily nectivorous, feeding on nectar from a wide variety of flowering plants, supplemented by insects (gleaned or hawked) and small fruits or berries.
The Polynesian Wattled Honeyeater is a diurnal and highly active bird, frequently observed foraging alone, in pairs, or small family groups. It employs a versatile foraging strategy, primarily probing flowers for nectar with its long, decurved bill and brush-tipped tongue, but also gleaning insec...
The Polynesian Wattled Honeyeater is a resident species distributed across a vast array of Polynesian islands, never undertaking migratory movements. Its core range includes the archipelagoes of Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, American Samoa, Wallis & Futuna, Niue, and Rotuma. Subspecies distributions are pa...
Least Concern
- The Polynesian Wattled Honeyeater is the most widespread honeyeater species across the islands of Polynesia. - Its common name refers to the distinctive fleshy wattles behind its eyes, which can be yellow, orange, red, or even black, depending on the subspecies. - It acts as a crucial pollinato...