The Wetar figbird is a species of bird in the family Oriolidae. It is endemic to forest, woodland and scrub on the Indonesian island of Wetar. The Wetar figbird remains poorly known, and although threatened by habitat loss, recent population estimates are greater than originally estimated, resulting in it being now listed as Least Concern by BirdLife International and the IUCN. The Wetar figbird resembles the better known Australasian figbird, but is much smaller and the male has entirely white underparts. Formerly, it has been considered a subspecies of the green figbird, but they are now classified as two separate species.
Region
Lesser Sunda Islands
Typical Environment
Restricted to Wetar Island, it occupies lowland and foothill forest, open woodland, edges, and scrub, often near fruiting Ficus trees. It readily uses secondary growth and semi-cultivated areas, including coconut groves and village trees. Birds forage mostly in the canopy but descend to midstory where fruit is abundant. Occurrence can be patchy and tied to seasonal fruit availability.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 900 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Endemic to Wetar Island in Indonesia, this figbird was formerly treated as a subspecies of the green/Australasian figbird complex but is now recognized as a distinct species. Males are notably smaller than Australasian figbirds and show strikingly white underparts. It is primarily a fruit specialist, especially on figs, but will also take insects. Although habitat loss is a concern, recent assessments list it as Least Concern due to a larger-than-expected population.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong flier with swift, direct wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen in small, noisy groups at fruiting trees and sometimes in mixed-species flocks. Pairs form during breeding, building a suspended cup nest high in the canopy. Nesting may occur in loose colonies where food is concentrated.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are a mix of mellow whistles and chattering notes, delivered from exposed perches in the canopy. Song phrases are short and repeated, with occasional harsh scolds when disturbed.
