The red wattlebird is Australia’s largest honeyeater and one of the loudest voices in the backyard, instantly recognisable by its red skin “wattles” and streaky grey-brown feathers. Found along the east and south-east coast, it feeds on nectar, insects and fruit, and isn’t shy about chasing off much smaller birds from flowering trees. While it adapts well to gardens and urban parks, the loss of native flowering plants still impacts local populations — conservation groups like BirdLife Australia work to protect and restore the habitats these bold birds rely on. A single red wattlebird can visit hundreds of flowers in a day, making it an important pollinator.