Western Wattlebird

Overview

The western wattlebird, Anthochaera lunulata, is a large passerine bird belonging to the honeyeater family, Meliphagidae. It is restricted to the south-western region of Australia.

Identification

• Long and slender body, with males measuring 29–33 cm in length and weighing 65–78 g, while females are smaller at 27–30 cm and 47–57 g.
• Dark grey-brown upperparts with pale streaks and spots; underparts are dark grey, streaked and tipped white.
• Dark brown forehead, crown, and nape streaked with fine, whitish shafts.
• Blackish-brown streak bordering the eye and a distinctive red iris.

Habitat

This species is found in the high rainfall area of south-western Australia, formerly dominated by forest and woodland. Its range extends toward the coast from Israelite Bay north to Geraldton, and inland to the Stirling Range, Lake Grace, and Northam.