Field Guide

Little Friarbird

Philemon citreogularis

Aves › Passeriformes › Meliphagidae › Philemon

Conservation status: least_concern

Little Friarbird (Philemon citreogularis)
Photo: © Stuart, CC0 1.0, GBIF

The little friarbird, also known as the little leatherhead or yellow-throated friarbird, is the smallest of the friarbirds within the Philemon genus. It is found throughout northern and eastern Australia as well as southern Papua New Guinea. It lives a very prominent life, whereby it can easily be seen chasing other honeyeaters, and also it is very vocal. However, the little friarbird is usually spotted high up in trees, rarely being seen on the ground.

How To Identify

This small passerine is characterized by vibrant plumage, often featuring striking yellow or greenish hues around the face and throat. The body typically displays shades of olive or bright green, making it easily visible within dense forest canopy.

Habitat

It typically inhabits open woodlands, woodland edges, gardens, and scrubby areas in tropical and subtropical regions of northern and eastern Australia.

Behaviour

These birds are highly vocal and aggressive foragers, often seen hanging upside down while probing flowers for nectar and insects, and they vigorously defend feeding territories against competitors.

Native Range

The little friarbird is found throughout northern and eastern Australia as well as southern Papua New Guinea.

Did You Know?

Little Friarbirds are among the noisiest honeyeaters, producing loud, harsh calls that can be heard from considerable distances. They are known for their aggressive territorial behaviour and will chase away much larger birds from feeding areas.

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