The Fiji wattled honeyeater or northern wattled honeyeater, is a species of bird in the honeyeater family Meliphagidae. It was considered conspecific with the Polynesian wattled honeyeater and the kikau.
Region
Fiji archipelago
Typical Environment
Occurs in the northern islands of Fiji, especially Vanua Levu, Taveuni, and nearby islets. It occupies a wide range of wooded habitats including primary and secondary rainforest, mangroves, coastal scrub, and gardens with flowering trees. The species adapts well to disturbed habitats and plantation edges where nectar sources are abundant. It forages from understory to canopy and often along forest margins. Presence is strongest where native flowering trees and epiphytes are common.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the northern wattled honeyeater, this species is one of three splits from the former widespread wattled honeyeater complex. It is noisy and conspicuous, often the first honeyeater noticed in northern Fijian forests. Its fleshy pale wattle at the side of the face is a key field mark. It readily visits flowering trees in villages and plantations, making it familiar to local communities.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small family groups and may join mixed-species flocks when feeding. Territorial around rich nectar sources, with frequent chases and vocal displays. Nests are cup-shaped and placed in trees; both parents participate in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Loud, varied calls combining sharp scolds with liquid whistles. Dawn chorus is vigorous and carries far through the forest. Alarm notes are harsh and repeated when intruders approach the nest.
Plumage
Olive-brown above with paler, lightly streaked underparts and a slightly grayer throat. Texture is sleek with subtle streaking on the breast and flanks. The face shows a prominent pale fleshy wattle near the ear coverts.
Diet
Takes nectar from a variety of native and introduced flowering trees and shrubs, including hibiscus and coconut. Supplements with insects and spiders gleaned from foliage and flowers. Also consumes small fruits and occasionally sap or honeydew. Foraging is opportunistic and often focused on seasonal blooms.
Preferred Environment
Feeds from mid-story to canopy in forest, along edges, and in village gardens. Frequently visits flowering plantations and coastal scrub where nectar is abundant. Will exploit human-modified areas if suitable trees are present.
