The New Ireland friarbird is a species of bird in the family Meliphagidae. It is endemic to Papua New Guinea.
Region
Bismarck Archipelago
Typical Environment
Occurs across New Ireland and nearby islets, occupying lowland to lower montane forests. It frequents primary and secondary rainforest, forest edges, and regrowth thickets. The species readily uses disturbed habitats, including coconut plantations and village gardens with flowering trees. It often follows seasonal blooms and fruiting events within its home range.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The New Ireland friarbird is a honeyeater restricted to the island of New Ireland in Papua New Guinea. Like other friarbirds, it has patches of bare facial skin and a slightly decurved bill adapted for taking nectar. It is often conspicuous around flowering trees and village gardens, where it can be noisy and territorial. Its presence can help indicate the health of native flowering tree communities.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct, purposeful flights between canopy gaps
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small family groups and may join mixed-species flocks in fruiting or flowering trees. It is territorial around rich nectar sources and will chase intruders. Nesting is likely a cup-shaped structure placed in foliage, with both parents contributing to care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocal repertoire includes harsh chattering calls, nasal scolds, and liquid whistles. Calls carry well through the canopy and form a prominent part of the dawn chorus.
Plumage
Mostly grey-brown to olive-brown above with paler grey underparts and faint streaking on the throat. Feathers are sleek with a slightly shaggy look around the neck, suggesting a pale 'cowl'. Bare, dark facial skin surrounds the eye and base of the bill.
Diet
Feeds primarily on nectar from a variety of native and cultivated flowering trees. Supplements its diet with insects and other arthropods gleaned from foliage and bark. Also consumes soft fruits and occasionally sips sap or honeydew. Its flexible feeding allows it to exploit both intact forest and human-altered landscapes.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the mid to upper canopy of forests, along edges, and over clearings with flowering trees. Frequently visits village gardens, coconut groves, and secondary growth where blossoms and fruits are abundant.
