Red Wattlebird
Scientific Name: Anthochaera carunculata
Size: 33 to 37 cm
What does it look and sound like?
The Red Wattlebird gets its name from a fleshy reddish wattles on the sides of the neck. These are found only in this species, although they can often difficult to see. Besides these, the bird can be identified by its grey-brown body, boldly streaked with white, yellow belly and long, white-tipped tail. The smaller Little Wattlebird is somewhat similar in plumage, but lacks the facial wattles, and has conspicuous rufous patches on the undersurface of the wings.
Its loud “chok” or harsh “yac a yac” calls are distinctive.
Where is it found?
The Red Wattlebird is found in the southern areas of the Australian mainland.
What are its habitats & habits?
The Red Wattlebird inhabits forests, woodlands and gardens, where it aggressively protects the food-bearing plants from other honeyeater species.
This species features in my book Australia’s Birdwatching Megaspots
