Facts About Anthochaera
Anthochaera is a captivating genus of birds within the honeyeater family, native to Australia. This group comprises the little wattlebird, red wattlebird, western wattlebird, and yellow wattlebird. Notably, a molecular phylogenetic study has indicated that the regent honeyeater also belongs to this genus.
Of these five species, only the yellow wattlebird and red wattlebird possess wattles—distinctive fleshy appendages used for display. While "wattlebird" is a common name for the species in this genus, it’s important to note that the term is also applied to some unrelated bird species.
The genus Anthochaera was first described in 1827 by Nicholas Aylward Vigors and Thomas Horsfield. The name "Anthochaera" is derived from Greek, meaning "flower" or "bloom" and "to enjoy" reflecting the birds' preference for nectar.
Initially, the regent honeyeater was classified under the genus Xanthomyza. However, subsequent DNA sequencing data revealed that it should be placed in Anthochaera. Further molecular analysis indicates that Anthochaera is closely related to the monotypic genus Acanthagenys, which includes the spiny-cheeked honeyeater.