The Timor friarbird or plain friarbird is a species of bird in the family Meliphagidae. It is found on Timor island.
Region
Lesser Sunda Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs on Timor and nearby islands such as Atauro, Semau, and Rote. It favors dry monsoon forest, open woodland, savanna with scattered trees, forest edges, and secondary scrub. It readily uses village gardens and plantations where flowering trees are present. Often found near watercourses and along ridges with mixed woodland. The species is generally common in suitable habitat.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Timor friarbird, also called the plain friarbird, is a honeyeater adapted to Timor’s monsoon woodlands and human-modified landscapes. It is conspicuous and vocal around flowering trees, often defending nectar sources from other birds. Despite its plain plumage, its long decurved bill and loud calls make it easy to detect. It tolerates secondary growth and gardens, which helps keep its populations stable.
Temperament
assertive and vocal
Flight Pattern
direct flight with short rapid wingbeats between trees
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups. Defends flowering trees vigorously from other nectar-feeders. Builds a suspended cup-shaped nest in foliage. Likely monogamous, with breeding timed to periods of peak flowering after seasonal rains.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Loud, harsh chattering mixed with nasal, scratchy notes and short warbles. Calls carry far and are given frequently while foraging or perching conspicuously.
Plumage
Plain grey-brown upperparts with paler, slightly streaked underparts and a whitish throat. Texture is smooth and unornamented, lacking wattles or crests typical of some friarbirds.
Diet
Primarily takes nectar from a variety of flowering trees and shrubs. Supplements with small insects and other arthropods gleaned from foliage and bark. Also consumes soft fruits such as figs and berries, especially when nectar is scarce. Will hawk briefly for flying insects near canopy gaps.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in the canopy and mid-story of monsoon woodland, savanna trees, and forest edges. Common in village gardens, plantations, and secondary growth where flowering eucalypts or other nectar sources are available.
