Sphecotheres

Sphecotheres is a small genus of passerine birds in the family Oriolidae, commonly known as figbirds. They occur in the Australasian region, with populations ranging from northern Australia through New Guinea to nearby islands. They inhabit forests, mangroves, and woodland edges, often favored for fruit availability and cover.

The genus contains two widely recognized species: the green figbird and Vieillot's figbird. They are mid-sized birds with greenish to olive plumage and a relatively long tail. In many contexts, males and females are similar in appearance, though there can be subtle differences in size or coloration between the sexes.

Ecology and behavior: Sphecotheres species are primarily frugivorous, feeding largely on figs and other fruits, but they also consume insects, particularly during the breeding season. They typically forage in pairs or small groups and may join mixed-species foraging flocks in suitable habitats.

Breeding and nesting: They build cup-shaped nests in trees or shrubs, producing a clutch of two to four eggs. Both parents participate in incubation and feeding of the young, contributing to parental care.

Conservation and taxonomy: Across their range, these birds are not generally considered globally threatened, though local populations can be affected by habitat loss and fragmentation. Taxonomic placement has varied, with some authorities treating Sphecotheres as part of Oriolidae and others discussing broader relationships within Old World fruit- and insect-eating birds.