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Overview
Red wattlebird

Red wattlebird

Wikipedia

The red wattlebird is a passerine bird native to southern Australia. At 33–37 cm in length, it is the second largest species of Australian honeyeater, after the yellow wattlebird. It has mainly grey-brown plumage, with red eyes, distinctive pinkish-red wattles on either side of the neck, white streaks on the chest and a large bright yellow patch on the lower belly. The sexes are similar in plumage. Juveniles have less prominent wattles and browner eyes. John White described the red wattlebird in 1790. Three subspecies are recognized.

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Distribution

Region

Southern Australia

Typical Environment

Occurs across much of southern Australia, from southwest Western Australia through South Australia and Victoria to New South Wales and the ACT, and also in Tasmania. Favors open forests and woodlands dominated by eucalypts, coastal scrub, heathlands, and urban parks and gardens. Typically avoids dense rainforests and the most arid interior. Often concentrates where flowering trees and shrubs are abundant, moving locally as resources change.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 1500 m

Climate Zone

Temperate

Characteristics

Size33–37 cm
Wing Span45–50 cm
Male Weight0.15 kg
Female Weight0.13 kg
Life Expectancy8 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The red wattlebird is one of Australia’s largest honeyeaters, named for the pinkish-red, fleshy wattles that hang from the sides of its neck. It is a bold, vocal bird that frequents flowering eucalypts and suburban gardens, often defending rich nectar sources vigorously. Its loud, guttural calls carry over long distances and are a familiar sound in southern Australian woodlands and parks.

Gallery

Bird photo
Bird photo
Bird photo
At a bird bath in Canberra, with wattles easily visible

At a bird bath in Canberra, with wattles easily visible

Red wattlebird

Red wattlebird

Adult feeding on grey box (Eucalyptus microcarpa) flowers

Adult feeding on grey box (Eucalyptus microcarpa) flowers

Chick, Victoria

Chick, Victoria

Subspecies woodwardii feeding on eucalypt in Perth

Subspecies woodwardii feeding on eucalypt in Perth

Subspecies carunculata feeding on exotic flowers in Melbourne

Subspecies carunculata feeding on exotic flowers in Melbourne

Behaviour

Temperament

bold, vocal, and territorial

Flight Pattern

direct flight with rapid, strong wingbeats

Social Behavior

Usually solitary or in pairs, but forms loose groups where flowering is prolific. Highly territorial around rich nectar sources and may aggressively chase other birds. Nests are shallow cups placed in trees or tall shrubs, with both parents involved in rearing.

Migratory Pattern

Partial migrant

Song Description

Calls are loud, harsh, and guttural, often described as cackles and coughs interspersed with chattering notes. Vocal at dawn and during feeding, with calls carrying over considerable distance.

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