The Buru friarbird or black-faced friarbird is a species of bird in the family Meliphagidae. It is endemic to the island of Buru in the Maluku Islands, Indonesia.
Region
Maluku Islands
Typical Environment
Confined to Buru, it occupies lowland and lower montane forests, secondary growth, forest edges, and wooded plantations. It readily uses disturbed habitats and can be seen around villages where flowering trees are abundant. The species forages from canopy to midstory and occasionally in taller scrub. It tolerates habitat mosaic but relies on patches of mature or semi-mature trees for feeding and nesting.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the black-faced friarbird, this honeyeater is restricted to the island of Buru in Indonesia’s Maluku Islands. It is a conspicuous, vocal species that frequents forest edges and village gardens, and plays a role in pollinating flowering trees. The common name “friarbird” refers to the dark, bare or sparsely feathered facial area reminiscent of a monk’s cowl.
Temperament
assertive and vocal
Flight Pattern
strong and direct with short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small family groups and may join mixed-species feeding flocks when trees are flowering. Territorial during the breeding season, with pairs defending productive nectar sources. Nests are typically cup-shaped and placed in trees or tall shrubs.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Loud, harsh, and nasal calls, often delivered from exposed perches. Phrases are repetitive and scolding, interspersed with chattering notes and whistles.
Plumage
Mostly gray-brown to olive-brown above with paler, slightly buffy underparts and a somewhat shaggy nape. Face is distinctly darker, giving a masked appearance; throat often cleaner and paler. Feathers appear plain overall with minimal patterning.
Diet
Feeds on nectar from a variety of native and cultivated flowering trees, acting as an important pollinator. Supplements nectar with insects and other arthropods gleaned from foliage or caught on the wing. Also takes small fruits and berries when available. Diet shifts seasonally with flowering peaks.
Preferred Environment
Forages high in the canopy and midstory of forest edges, secondary woodland, and gardens. Often visits flowering trees in plantations and along roadsides and village areas.
