GOLDEN WHISTLER IN FRED CATERSON RESERVE

The Golden Whistler is a small insect-eating bird. The adult male Golden Whistler is bright yellow on the underside, olive-green on the back and wings, and black on the head with a bright yellow collar. Its throat is white, separated from the yellow chest by a broad black band. Females lack bright plumage. They are generally grey above, with a pale olive tinge, and paler grey below, with a buff wash. Young Golden Whistlers are rufous. As they mature, the plumage comes to resemble that of the female.

The Golden Whistler is found from northern Queensland, around coastal eastern and southern Australia, to Western Australia. While it can be found in almost any wooded habitat, from rainforest to mallee, it prefers the denser areas. Occasionally it visits parks and orchards. It has been seen in Fred Caterson Reserve.

Its voice is strong, musical and varied. If you learn it and hear it you will be able to locate the bird. During breeding season males can be often heard calling to attract a mate. At other times, despite the bright colouring of the males, they can be difficult to spot.

Golden Whistlers feed on insects, spiders and other small arthropods. Berries are also eaten. Most food is obtained from the lower or middle tree level, where it is picked from leaves and bark.

Did you know? This species is one of Australia’s loudest and most beautiful songsters.

Information provided by BirdLife Southern NSW in conjunction with BirdLife Australia's Birds in Backyards Program.