The New Caledonian friarbird is a species of bird in the family Meliphagidae. It is endemic to New Caledonia.
Region
Southwest Pacific
Typical Environment
Found across the New Caledonian archipelago, primarily on the main island (Grande Terre) and nearby islets where suitable habitat exists. It occupies humid forests, forest edges, maquis shrublands, and secondary growth, and also ventures into plantations and gardens with flowering trees. The species forages from understory to canopy, often frequenting eucalypt-like niaouli and other nectar-rich flora. It tolerates moderate habitat disturbance but depends on ongoing availability of flowering resources.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A large honeyeater endemic to New Caledonia, the New Caledonian friarbird is assertive around flowering trees and often chases other nectar feeders. It plays a key role in pollination by visiting a variety of native blossoms. Its bare, wrinkled facial skin and long decurved bill give it a distinctive profile. Despite its limited range, it remains relatively common in suitable habitats.
Temperament
territorial and assertive
Flight Pattern
strong, direct flights between trees with short glides
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, and often dominates mixed-species foraging flocks at flowering trees. Pairs defend nectar sources vigorously against intruders. Nesting is likely in a cup-shaped structure placed in foliage; the species is thought to be monogamous during the breeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocal and loud, delivering harsh, scolding calls mixed with chattering notes. Phrases are repeated with a nasal quality typical of friarbirds, and dawn choruses can be conspicuous around flowering trees.
Plumage
Mostly gray-brown to olive-brown with a paler, slightly streaked throat and breast; feathers appear smooth with subtle edging. Head shows areas of bare, wrinkled facial skin around the cheek and eye, contrasting with the surrounding plumage.
Diet
Primarily consumes nectar from a range of native flowering trees and shrubs, acting as an important pollinator. It supplements with insects and other arthropods gleaned from foliage and caught on the wing. Fruits and small berries are also taken when available, making the diet seasonally flexible. It may probe flowers with its long, decurved bill and also hawk briefly for flying insects.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in forest edges, open woodlands, and maquis with abundant blossoms. Frequently visits gardens and plantations where nectar sources are concentrated, and often forages in the mid to upper canopy.
