Brush wattle-bird (Anthochaera chrysoptera), 1790s

Mitchell Library, State Library of NSW; Purchased 1887; PXD 226, f. 58

Watercolour

Brush wattle-birds, also known as Little wattle-birds are honeyeaters that are found in coastal areas of south eastern Australia.

The Brush wattle-bird’s specific name come from the Ancient Greek chryso, meaning ‘golden’ and pteron meaning ‘wing’.

Brush wattle-birds use their brush tipped tongue to feed on nectar. They also eat a range of insects, berries and seeds.

Brush wattle-birds display loud clucking and distinctive unmusical calls.

Bush wattle-birds have a range of habitats including banksia heaths, forests, woodlands, urban parks and gardens.

During breeding season, Brush wattle-birds lay one to two eggs in untidy nests of twigs. The eggs are spotted red-brown or purplish in colour.