Figbird

The figbirds are a genus in the family of Old [World oriole]s found in wooded habitats in Australia, New Guinea, and the Lesser Sundas.

Taxonomy and systematics

Formerly, the three species have been considered conspecific, but all major authorities now consider them as separate species. The split is primarily based on differences in measurements, plumage, and biogeography.

Species

Three species are recognized:

Image	Common name	Scientific name	Distribution
	Green figbird	Sphecotheres viridis	Indonesian islands of Roti and Timor
	Wetar figbird	Sphecotheres hypoleucus	Indonesian island of Wetar
	Australasian figbird	Sphecotheres vieilloti	northern and eastern Australia, southern New Guinea, and the Kai Islands

Description

They are strongly sexually dimorphic, with males having olive-green upperparts, a black head, and distinct bright red facial skin. Females are drab-coloured, being dull brownish above, and white below with strong dark streaking. They have greyish facial skin, and a greyish-black bill.

Behaviour and ecology

Compared to the "typical" Old World orioles of the genus Oriolus, the figbirds are more frugivorous and gregarious, even breeding in small, loose colonies.