Wetar Island, located in the eastern part of Indonesia, is home to a diverse range of bird species. With its lush forests, grassy savannas, and stunning coastline, Wetar Island offers a variety of habitats for birds to thrive in.
From tiny hummingbirds to large raptors, the island provides a haven for different avian species that have adapted to its unique ecology. With over 150 bird species recorded on the island, Wetar has become a popular destination for birdwatchers and ornithologists seeking to witness the island’s rich birdlife.
In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of birds on Wetar Island and discover some of its unique avian residents.
1. Timor Imperial Pigeon
The Timor imperial pigeon is an impressive bird species in the family Columbidae. It inhabits both subtropical and tropical dry forests as well as montane forests in Wetar and Timor islands.
Unfortunately, this majestic creature’s natural habitat has been threatened by deforestation which makes it vulnerable to extinction.
The bird features a unique grey body with black barring on its wings, chestnut head and neck feathers as well as a yellow bill tipped with red colouring at times.
Its feet are also coloured bright pink. The birds feed mainly on fruits such as figs but will occasionally eat insects too for added protein intake during reproduction season or when food sources become scarce due to seasonal changes or other factors affecting their environment negatively.
Therefore we should strive to protect these beautiful creatures from extinction through conservation efforts such planting more trees around the area where they live so that future generations can continue to enjoy them for many years come.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Ducula |
| Species | D. cineracea |
Also Featured In: Timor-Leste birds,
2. Pink-Headed Imperial Pigeon
The pink-headed imperial pigeon is a species of bird native to the Lesser Sunda Islands in Indonesia. It inhabits subtropical or tropical moist forests, mangrove forests and shrublands.
This majestic creature has an unmistakable reddish head and wings that are light grey with black markings.
Sadly, its population faces a decline due to habitat loss so it is currently listed as threatened on the IUCN Red List.
Conservation efforts must be taken now if we want this beautiful species to survive for many generations more.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Ducula |
| Species | D. rosacea |
3. Cinnamon-Banded Kingfisher
The Cinnamon-banded Kingfisher is a stunning species of bird found in Indonesia and East Timor.
Endemic to the Lesser Sundas, this beautiful creature has an easily recognizable bright cinnamon-colored band across its chest.
It makes its home in subtropical or tropical dry forests but unfortunately these habitats are facing destruction due to human encroachment and development which is putting the future of this species at risk.
The Cinnamon-banded Kingfisher relies on well maintained ecosystems for food, shelter and safety so it’s important that we do what we can to protect them before they become extinct.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Coraciiformes |
| Family | Alcedinidae |
| Subfamily | Halcyoninae |
| Genus | Todiramphus |
| Species | T. australasia |
Also Featured In: Birds in Sumba,
4. Wetar Ground Dove
The Wetar ground dove is a species of bird found in Indonesia on the islands of Wetar and Timor. Its habitat includes monsoon forests, gallery forests, woodland, and bamboos.
Unfortunately this species is endangered due to threats such as hunting and loss of its natural habitats.
First described by Hermann Schlegel in 1871 from Weta as “Leptoptila hoedtii,” it has been assessed as an endangered species according to the IUCN Red List since 2000.
The wetar ground dove typically nests on bare soil or among rocks where vegetation is scarce; their diet consists mainly of seeds obtained from grasses near water sources.
As part of conservation efforts for this beautiful bird, we must work towards preserving existing areas that contain suitable habitats for them so they may continue to thrive.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Pampusana |
| Species | P. hoedtii |
5. Plain Gerygone
The Plain gerygone is a species of bird found in the family Acanthizidae. It lives on the islands of Wetar and Timor, inhabiting both subtropical lowland forests and mangrove forests.
This small gray-brown songbird has no distinct markings, but it does have bright yellow eyes that contrast with its otherwise plain appearance.
The Plain Gerygone feeds mostly on insects like flies, spiders and moths which it catches off leaves or even midair.
Its call is a gentle chattering sound reminiscent of other members of its family such as thornbills or scrubwrens.
Although not threatened overall, human activity continues to threaten their habitats so conservation efforts should be taken to preserve them for future generations to appreciate this little bird’s beauty and unique songs.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Acanthizidae |
| Genus | Gerygone |
| Species | G. inornata |
6. Timor Oriole
The Timor oriole is a species of bird that belongs to the family Oriolidae and is endemic to the Lesser Sundas.
It can be found on Timor, Rote and Semau Islands where its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry forests as well as subtropical or tropical mangrove forests.
This brightly colored bird has a striking black head with yellow shoulders, back and rump while its wings have white bars running through them.
Its underparts are mainly yellow apart from some orange feathers near its tail tip which enhances their beauty even further.
The Wetar oriole was originally thought to be separate but recent studies suggest they may in fact belong to the same species due to similarities between them both morphologically and genetically.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Oriolidae |
| Genus | Oriolus |
| Species | O. melanotis |
7. Jonquil Parrot
The Jonquil Parrot is a species of parrot found in the family Psittaculidae. It inhabits forest, woodland and acacia savanna on islands such as Roti, Timor and Wetar.
This bird has both sexes that look like females of closely related red-winged parrots.
Despite being fairly common, this species could be threatened by habitat loss due to human activities such as deforestation or agricultural expansion.
The most striking features are its olive shoulders with yellowish underparts along with a white-tipped tail feathers which catches attention when it flies away from danger.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Psittaciformes |
| Family | Psittaculidae |
| Genus | Aprosmictus |
| Species | A. jonquillaceus |
8. Fawn-Breasted Whistler
The Fawn-breasted Whistler is a species of bird found on the islands of Timor and Wetar. It is small in size, with predominantly fawn plumage and white underparts.
This beautiful little creature inhabits subtropical or tropical lowland forests as well as mangrove forests, where it feeds mainly on insects.
Its alternate names are Sunda whistler or Timor whistler due to its wide distribution across these two islands.
The male’s song consists of melodic trills which can be heard from far distances – hence the name ‘whistler’.
All in all, this tiny bird serves an important role within ecosystems by controlling insect populations while adding beauty to our natural world through its attractive features.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Pachycephalidae |
| Genus | Pachycephala |
| Species | P. orpheus |
9. Aberrant Bush Warbler
The Aberrant Bush Warbler is a species of bird found in Asia, primarily Central and Southern China. It belongs to the bush warbler family and was formerly part of the Old World warblers grouping.
This small songbird also inhabits northern Myanmar and Vietnam as well as countries such as Bhutan, India, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia Nepal Philippines Thailand Timor-Leste and Vietnam.
Its diet consists mainly of insects which it finds on bark or foliage while foraging through trees or shrubs.
They have mostly brown plumage with greyish highlights but during breeding season males develop yellow patches around their throats making them easier to identify amongst other birds in its habitat.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cettiidae |
| Genus | Horornis |
| Species | H. flavolivaceus |
10. Lesser Shortwing
The Lesser Shortwing bird is a type of chat that belongs to the Muscicapidae family. Native to south-eastern Asia, the bird can be found in regions such as Sumatra, Java, and the Lesser Sundas.
The bird’s natural habitat includes subtropical or tropical moist montane forests. Its scientific name is Brachypteryx leucophris, and it is known for its small size and attractive appearance.
Although it shares a similar name with the Short-winged Tailor bird, their appearances are vastly different.
The Lesser Shortwing has a beautiful chestnut-brown upper body with a distinctive white belly.
Despite being classified as a “least concern” species, the population of the Lesser Shortwing has been decreasing steadily.
There are several conservation efforts in place to protect the bird’s natural habitat and its existence to ensure that it continues to thrive in the future.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Muscicapidae |
| Genus | Brachypteryx |
| Species | B. leucophris |
Also Featured In: Birds that Commonly Found in Bali, Common Birds of Lombok
11. Marigold Lorikeet
The Marigold lorikeet, also known as the Sumba lorikeet, is a parrot species found in south-east Asian islands such as Sumba, Rote, Wetar, Kisar and Timor.
It was initially considered a subspecies of the rainbow lorikeet but is now recognized as a distinct species. These small, colorful birds are known for their stunning combination of bright orange and yellow feathers.
They have a unique brush-like tongue that allows them to feed on nectar and pollen, and their beaks are specially adapted to crack and eat seeds.
Unfortunately, the Marigold lorikeet is considered a vulnerable species due to habitat loss and illegal trade.
Conservation efforts are underway to protect this beautiful bird and ensure its survival in the wild.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Psittaciformes |
| Family | Psittaculidae |
| Genus | Trichoglossus |
| Species | T. capistratus |
12. Ashy-Bellied White-Eye
The Ashy-bellied white-eye, also known as the Pale white-eye, is a bird found in the Lesser Sunda Islands and northern Cape York Peninsula.
It is a member of the Zosteropidae family and is commonly found in subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
Despite its name, it is not to be confused with the Pale-bellied white-eye. This species is known for its ashy-grey belly and white eye-ring.
Its diet mainly consists of fruit and insects, and it is usually seen in groups or pairs. The Ashy-bellied white-eye is a small bird, reaching a length of only 11 centimeters.
Its beautiful plumage and charming nature make it a popular sight among birdwatchers and nature lovers.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Zosteropidae |
| Genus | Zosterops |
| Species | Z. citrinella |
13. Blue-Cheeked Flowerpecker
The Blue-cheeked flowerpecker, also known as the Red-chested flowerpecker, is a member of the Dicaeidae family of birds. This species is found on Timor island in the Lesser Sundas.
Their natural habitats include forests with moist, subtropical or tropical conditions. The Blue-cheeked flowerpecker is a small bird that measures just a few inches long.
They have a distinctive blue and black coloration on their cheeks and a patch of red on their chest.
Their diet primarily consists of nectar and insects. These tiny birds play an important role in pollinating flowers while feeding on nectar. They also help to control insect populations in their ecosystems.
Despite their small size, the Blue-cheeked flowerpecker is a fascinating species of bird that is essential to the ecological balance of their habitat.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Dicaeidae |
| Genus | Dicaeum |
| Species | D. maugei |
14. Tricolored Parrotfinch
The Tricolored Parrotfinch, scientifically known as Erythrura tricolor, is a small bird species which belongs to the estrildid finch family. It is found in the southern Moluccas and Timor, with an estimated habitat range of 20,000 to 50,000 square kilometers.
The bird thrives in subtropical and tropical dry forests as well as dry savannahs. Despite its limited global distribution, the IUCN has classified the Tricolored Parrotfinch as a species of least concern.
The bird’s origin and phylogeny have been studied by Antonio Arnaiz-Villena and colleagues.
Due to its beautiful and striking coloration, the Tricolored Parrotfinch is a popular choice for bird enthusiasts who keep it as a pet.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Estrildidae |
| Genus | Erythrura |
| Species | E. tricolor |
15. Wetar Figbird
The Wetar figbird is a unique species of bird belonging to the Oriolidae family, found only in the Indonesian island of Wetar. This bird species makes its home in forests, woodlands, and scrublands.
Despite being threatened by habitat loss, Wetar figbirds have recently had their population estimates revised to be greater than initially thought. As a result, the bird is currently listed as Least Concern by BirdLife International.
However, the Wetar figbird remains poorly understood, with limited information available about their behavior and biology. More research is needed to uncover the secrets of this beautiful and fascinating bird.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Oriolidae |
| Genus | Sphecotheres |
| Species | S. hypoleucus |
16. Wetar Myzomela
The Wetar myzomela, also known as the crimson-hooded myzomela, is a unique bird species found exclusively on the island of Wetar.
These birds make their homes in subtropical and tropical environments, including moist lowland forests, shrublands, and gardens.
Sadly, the Wetar myzomela is facing significant threats due to habitat loss. As natural habitats disappear, these birds struggle to find suitable living spaces and may struggle to find enough food to sustain themselves.
The loss of Wetar myzomela populations would be a significant loss for the birding community and the ecosystem as a whole.
It’s crucial that we work to protect these precious birds and safeguard their habitats to ensure that they survive and thrive for generations to come.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Meliphagidae |
| Genus | Myzomela |
| Species | M. kuehni |
17. Black-Necklaced Honeyeater
The Black-necklaced Honeyeater, also known as the Black-chested Honeyeater, is a unique species of bird belonging to the Meliphagidae family. This bird is found only in Wetar and is threatened due to habitat loss.
Its natural habitats include subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, shrublands, and rural gardens.
The Black-necklaced Honeyeater is known for its distinct black necklace, which gives the bird its name. These birds are essential pollinators and help in the perpetuation of various plant species.
The Black-necklaced Honeyeater is an exceptional songbird, and its voice resonates through their habitats.
Despite their aesthetically pleasing appearance and crucial role in supporting the ecosystem, this bird’s population is decreasing rapidly due to habitat loss, making conservation efforts necessary for their survival.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Meliphagidae |
| Genus | Lichmera |
| Species | L. notabilis |
18. Scaly-Breasted Honeyeater
The Scaly-breasted honeyeater is commonly known as the white-tufted honeyeater. This bird belongs to the Meliphagidae family and is found only in Indonesia.
It inhabits the southern Moluccas, where its natural habitats include subtropical or tropical dry forests, moist lowland forests, and mangrove forests. The Scaly-breasted honeyeater has distinct scales on its breast, giving it the name.
This bird is small in size and is known for its ability to extract nectar from flowers. It has a unique and melodious bird call and is often found in pairs or small groups.
Despite being a bird of small stature, the Scaly-breasted honeyeater plays an important role in pollination by transferring pollen from one flower to another.
Overall, this bird is a vital part of the Indonesian ecosystem.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Meliphagidae |
| Genus | Lichmera |
| Species | L. squamata |
19. Timor Leaf Warbler
The Timor leaf warbler is a type of Old World warbler that can only be found on the island of Timor. This bird species belongs to the Phylloscopidae family and is closely related to the Rote leaf warbler.
Despite their similarities, these two bird species are distinct from each other. The Timor leaf warbler is known for its unique appearance and beautiful chirping sound. This bird’s habitat is limited to Timor island, making it a rare creature to spot.
Bird enthusiasts and nature lovers who visit the island of Timor have a chance to witness the beauty of this bird species in its natural habitat. Despite its limited range, the Timor leaf warbler plays a crucial role in the ecosystem of Timor island.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Phylloscopidae |
| Genus | Phylloscopus |
| Species | P. presbytes |
20. Wallacean Cuckooshrike
The Wallacean cuckooshrike is a unique bird species that belongs to the family Campephagidae. These birds are native to Indonesia and can be found in the Lesser Sunda Islands and the Kai Islands.
They prefer to reside in subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests. One notable aspect of this bird is that it is an endemic species, which means it is exclusive to Indonesia.
Wallacean cuckooshrikes have distinct features such as a dark mask-like pattern around their eyes and a broad tail.
These birds are known for their beautiful greyish-blue feathers and their elegant yet powerful flights through the forest canopy.
Overall, the Wallacean cuckooshrike is an extraordinary bird species that plays an important role in the diversity of Indonesia’s avian fauna.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Campephagidae |
| Genus | Coracina |
| Species | C. personata |