Little Friarbird

The Little Friarbird, known scientifically as Philemon citreogularis, is the most diminutive member of its genus. This species, also referred to as the Little Leatherhead or Yellow-throated Friarbird, is a conspicuous presence in its range, often seen energetically pursuing other honeyeaters and is noted for its vocal nature. Despite its active canopy life, it is seldom observed on the ground.

Identification Tips

Adult Little Friarbirds measure between 25 to 30 centimeters in length, with an average weight of 67 grams. Males are generally larger than females, though they are similar in appearance. This species lacks the casque—a distinctive ridge on the beak—seen in other friarbirds. Notable features include the bare blue skin beneath the eye, which extends over the cheek and can vary in shade from grey to black. Dark feathers frame this patch of skin. The plumage is a dark grey-brown on top, with a dull white fringe on the nape that extends to a broad patch on the side of the neck. Under the chin, fine silky white feathers lead to silvery white streaks down the breast, transitioning to pale grey on the underbody. The bird's bill is black and curved, the eyes dark brown, and the legs bluish black. In flight, the Little Friarbird exhibits shallow, quivering wing-beats, and its tail is square-cut with pale tips on the feathers.

Juveniles

Juvenile Little Friarbirds present a paler facade, with lighter facial skin and a yellowish wash on the chin, throat, and sometimes upper breast. Yellow spots may adorn the sides of the breast. Their tails are less distinctly square-cut compared to adults.

Voice

The Little Friarbird's call is a distinctive, liquid mellow "gee-wit" or "chewip," which becomes an extended series of chattering scoldings during the breeding season. A common vocal sequence resembles "rackety-crookshank."

Diet

This species is often seen feeding alone, in pairs, or small flocks, usually high in the trees. It rarely descends to the ground, preferring to feed on nectar, blossoms, fruit, invertebrates, and occasionally flowers and seeds.

Distribution and Habitat

The Little Friarbird is predominantly found in northern Australia, with seasonal migrations to the southeast. Its range extends from Western Australia's Broome area through the Kimberleys and into the Northern Territory, across most of Queensland, and into the southeast, including New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, and the Australian Capital Territory. It also inhabits southern Papua New Guinea and adjacent islands. Preferred habitats include swamp woodlands, mangroves, shrub communities, open forests, and woodlands, particularly those dominated by Eucalyptus. They are also found in orchards, vineyards, and gardens during flowering seasons and may venture into arid zones near water bodies.

Breeding

Breeding pairs of Little Friarbirds are monogamous. Nesting occurs from July to February, with nests being open cups made of various materials, including bark fiber and spider webs, often built over water. Clutches typically contain 2 to 3 eggs, which are chestnut-colored or spotted purplish-red. Females incubate the eggs, and up to two broods may be raised in a season. The species is known to be parasitized by the Common Koel during breeding.

Conservation Status

The Little Friarbird is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating a stable population without significant threats to its survival.